If you like tasty treats, you have probably heard of a cooking slab sourced from the majestic Himalayas. Yes, you guessed it right. Step into a world of culinary magic with these Himalayan salt cooking blocks. While they may look like ordinary kitchen tools, they’re the secret to adding incredible flavors to your dishes.
If you’re thinking about purchasing or already owning these Himalayan salt cooking blocks, for your kitchen it’s important to take a moment and read this article. We have prepared a guide on how to use these salt blocks.
What Are Himalayan Salt Cooking Blocks?
Himalayan salt cooking blocks are giant slabs made up of pure and natural Himalayan salt which comes from the Khewra salt mines. When heated the salt block gives your food a subtle salty flavor. You can grill on them, sear on them, or even use them to serve cold appetizers like sushi.
Not only do they add a touch of elegance to your cooking but they are also good for your health because they naturally season food because of the presence of trace minerals in Himalayan pink salt.
How To Use Himalayan Salt Block?
Himalayan salt blocks have gained popularity due to their versatility and health benefits. Below is a guide to help you begin using them:
1. Versatility Of Himalayan Salt Blocks
Himalayan salt cooking blocks can be used in various ways for different purposes. These blocks are known for their ability to enhance the flavor of food when used as cooking surfaces or serving platters. They can also be used as chilled plates for serving dishes providing a dining experience.
2. Getting Started With Himalayan Salt Blocks
Before using the salt block ensure it is clean and free from any impurities by wiping it with a cloth. Place the block on a grill or stovetop and overheat to gradually warm it up. Once heated you can cook directly on the block or use it as a seasoning tool by rubbing ingredients against its surface.
3. Benefits Of Himalayan Salt Blocks
When heated these blocks release trace minerals into your food adding depth and complexity to flavors. The natural properties of salt make it an ideal tool for conducting heat resulting in perfectly cooked dishes.
4. Caring For Your Salt Block
After each use, allow the Himalayan salt block to cool completely before cleaning it with a brush or sponge. Avoid using soap or harsh chemicals as they may damage the block’s surface and alter its taste. Remember, experimenting with recipes and techniques will help you fully explore the potential of salt blocks, in your culinary adventures.
How To Cook On Himalayan Salt Block?
Using a Himalayan salt block to cook is a unique and tasty way to make food. Here is a guide on how to cook on a Himalayan salt block:
Choose Your Salt Block
Select a pink salt slab that’s suitable, for culinary purposes. Make sure it’s clean and doesn’t have anything that could harm it.
Preheat The Salt Block
Put your dry salt slab in an oven. Set the temperature to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the oven reaches 250 degrees take out the salt slab. Allow it to cool for 30 minutes. Afterward, place it back in the oven. Adjust the temperature to range between 400 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the heat spreads gradually and throughout.
Heat It Evenly
Gently warm the salt block to ensure heating without any hotspots. The time required for this will vary depending on the thickness of the block typically ranging from 30 to 45 minutes.
Season Your Ingredients
Before placing your ingredients on the salt block, sprinkle an amount of salt and pepper over them. Remember that since the cooking block itself is already salty you’ll need less salt, than usual.
Cooking On The Salt Block
To cook on the salt block carefully place your food on it when the block has reached a temperature of, around 450 to 500°F or 232 to 260°C. Use a spatula to flip and move the food to prevent it from sticking. The salt block will not only brown your food. Cook it thoroughly while imparting a wholesome flavor.
Check & Adjust
It’s essential to keep an eye on your food as it cooks on the salt block. Make any adjustments to maintain the heat level accordingly. Remember that seafood, sliced meats, and vegetables tend to cook quickly on this surface.
Serve And Enjoy
Once your food reaches your desired level of completion carefully remove it from the salt block. Be cautious as the block will retain its heat for a longer period after cooking. Place your food beautifully arranged on a platter or plate and add any desired garnishing. The subtle salty flavor imparted by the salt block will undoubtedly enhance the taste of your dishes.
Let the Salt Block Cool Down & Clean It
Allow time for the salt block to cool down before proceeding with its cleaning process. To remove any remaining food you can use a spatula or brush to scrape it off. Remember not to use water as it can harm the surface. Instead, simply wipe it down with a cloth.
Store It
Put your salt block somewhere dry, and away from water. If it is taken care of it can be used many times.
Is Himalayan Salt Block Beneficial?
Yes, Himalayan salt blocks can help in many ways both in the kitchen and for health and wellness. Here are several benefits of a Himalayan salt block:
- Gives food a unique naturally salty taste while it is cooking.
- Himalayan salt is renowned for its 84 trace minerals. When used in cooking these minerals infuse into the food.
- It keeps heat in for even cooking and serving at the right temperature for a long time.
- It has the versatility to be utilized for grilling, searing, chilling, and presenting a variety of dishes.
- Himalayan salt cooking block can retain moisture.
- Himalayan salt blocks last longer when they’re stored in a cool and dry place.
Conclusion
The Himalayan salt cooking block is hand-carved from pure Himalayan Salt to add a fresh twist to your everyday meals. Cooking on these blocks gives your food a unique salty flavor, and also imparts essential trace minerals. This mineral-rich Himalayan salt cooking plate is naturally anti-microbial. By using these pink salt cooking blocks your food will be cooked while retaining its value.