Sea salt flakes (e.g. Maldon)
Description
Sea salt flakes (e.g. Maldon) are delicate, flat crystals with thin, scaly edges and a light white or slightly gray color, providing a crunchy, instant burst of salty, pure, slightly mineral flavor without the metallic bitterness of table salt. The nutrients are mainly limited to sodium chloride with small amounts of magnesium, calcium, and other trace elements; low in calories, but high in sodium means they should be used sparingly, serving as finishing salt, which enhances the flavor of dishes with a lower total amount of salt. In the kitchen, the flakes pair wonderfully with steaks, fish and seafood, salads, roasted vegetables, fresh tomatoes, caramelized desserts, and chocolate, adding a textural contrast. Store them in an airtight, dark, and dry container, away from moisture and high temperatures; they do not require refrigeration, and moisture quickly robs them of their crunch.