Black Hawaiian Salt
Image: Hannnnemannnn · CC BY-SA 3.0
A dark, matte black gourmet salt obtained by mixing Hawaiian sea salt with activated coconut charcoal. Used as a finishing salt before serving for its earthy, lightly smoky taste.
What Is Black Hawaiian Salt?
Black Hawaiian salt is a gourmet salt made by mixing sea salt with activated charcoal derived from coconut shell. It is also known as "black lava salt."
Its color is dark, matte black; the activated charcoal itself is not particularly noticeable in taste, but it adds a slightly earthy note alongside the salt's own mineral taste.
Nutritional Value of Black Hawaiian Salt
Being a salt, it contains no calories; its main nutritional component is sodium. The activated charcoal component makes no meaningful contribution to nutritional value. Values vary by brand and are approximate.
How Should Black Hawaiian Salt Be Consumed?
Black Hawaiian salt is consumed in moderate amounts like other salts, as part of a balanced diet; it is recommended not to overdo sodium intake.
This information is general; black Hawaiian salt is a salt, not a substitute for medical treatment. People with high blood pressure are advised to keep their salt intake controlled.
How to Choose Black Hawaiian Salt?
Good black Hawaiian salt is dark, matte black in color, has coarse-crystal grains, and states the source of its activated charcoal on the label.
- Should be dark, matte black in color, homogeneous
- Grains should be coarse-crystal, not fine powder
- Label should clearly state the sea salt + activated charcoal composition
How to Store Black Hawaiian Salt?
Black Hawaiian salt can be stored indefinitely in a closed container in a dry cupboard; absorbing moisture can cause it to clump.
Using Black Hawaiian Salt in the Kitchen
Black Hawaiian salt is used most sprinkled over grilled meat-fish, avocado, and boiled eggs just before serving, to create visual contrast on the plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between black Hawaiian salt and red Hawaiian salt?
The source of color differs; the black type gets its color from activated charcoal, while the red type gets it from volcanic red clay (alaea), and their taste profiles differ accordingly.
Is black Hawaiian salt used in cooking?
It can be used, but due to its high price and visual value it is generally preferred as a finishing salt after cooking.
Is black Hawaiian salt available in Turkey?
It can be found at gourmet markets and shops selling specialty spices and salts; it is not common.