Sal Tradicional: Portuguese Sea Salt

We are excited to offer this beautiful sea salt from Portugal, perfect for everyday cooking. This Sal Tradicional (Portuguese Sea Salt) is divine: soft, pale cream-colored crystals that are hand-harvested from salt ponds. These delicate crystals are made in a traditional three-step process: Flooding, Gathering and Drying.  

The Flooding process begins with clean sea water (brine) that flows into small crystallizing ponds. The water is then naturally evaporated by the sun and wind. As evaporation occurs, the salt begins to crystallize. After several days, the Gathering stage begins, and wooden rakes are used to pull the salt into piles. New brine is added to the pond, and these two steps are repeated.

After the harvest is completed, the final stage of Drying begins, which is accomplished naturally by the sun and wind. This method of hand harvesting and sun-drying salt has been around for centuries, introduced by the Phoenicians, and perfected by the Romans. The result is a moist salt with a delicate and balanced flavor - perfect for all dishes.

The salt originates from the Ria Formosa Nature Reserve in the Eastern Algarve of Portugal. It is unrefined and certified organic and kosher (certified by Certiplanet in Peniche/Portugal, and by Natural Food Certifiers in New York/USA). The salt is regularly tested to verify it is free of any toxic substances.

This reasonably priced salt can be used freely in the kitchen, both in cooking and for finishing. Its fine grain and moist texture will not overwhelm a dish, but instead enhance its flavors provide a delicate and subtle crunch.