The Best Salts for Finishing Dishes

Seasoning a dish doesn’t end with cooking. Finishing salts are unrefined, high-quality salts that are added at the end of cooking to enhance a dish’s taste and texture. Unlike standard table salt, they offer unique flavours and delicate crystals that dissolve beautifully on food. These salts are often hand-harvested and undergo minimal processing, ensuring they retain their natural mineral content and distinct characteristics. By choosing the right finishing salt, you can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience.

Top Finishing Salts for Every Dish

Fleur de Sel – The Ultimate All-Rounder

Harvested from coastal seawater, Fleur de Sel is a delicate, flaky salt with a slight moisture content that helps it dissolve slowly. It’s perfect for sprinkling over grilled meats, fresh salads, and even chocolate desserts. This salt is prized for its bright, clean taste that enhances the natural sweetness and umami of food. It’s a favourite among chefs for its versatility and ability to bring out the best in fresh ingredients.

Himalayan Pink Salt – Rich in Minerals

Mined from ancient sea beds, Himalayan Pink Salt contains trace minerals that give it a mild, slightly earthy taste. It’s an excellent finishing touch for grilled meats and roasted potatoes. Its striking pink colour comes from iron and other minerals, making it a visually appealing choice for plating. Beyond aesthetics, Himalayan salt provides a gentle crunch that works well with heartier dishes and bold flavours.

Black Lava Salt – A Dramatic Finish

This volcanic salt, infused with activated charcoal, brings a striking colour contrast and mild smoky flavour. It’s ideal for seafood, avocado toast, and even cocktails. The activated charcoal in Black Lava Salt is known for its detoxifying properties, adding an extra layer of health benefits. Its bold, dark crystals stand out beautifully against lighter foods, making it a stylish and flavourful addition to any dish.

Smoked Sea Salt – Deep, Complex Flavour

Slow-smoked over wood, this salt adds a rich depth to barbecued meats, grilled mushrooms, and roasted nuts. It’s a must for lovers of smoky flavours. The type of wood used in the smoking process—whether hickory, applewood, or mesquite—can influence the final taste. Smoked sea salt is perfect for adding an extra layer of complexity to vegetarian dishes, soups, and even caramel-based desserts.

How to Use Finishing Salts

For the best effect, sprinkle finishing salt onto dishes just before serving. A small pinch can enhance the natural flavours of ingredients without overpowering them, while also adding a splash of colour contrast and visual appeal. When using salts with larger crystals, crush them slightly between your fingers before sprinkling for even distribution. Keep a selection of finishing salts on hand to match different cuisines and flavour profiles, ensuring your meals always have the perfect finishing touch.

Elevate Every Bite

The right finishing salt can turn a good dish into a great one. Whether you’re looking for a crisp crunch, a smoky edge, or a mineral-rich boost, choosing the right salt makes all the difference. Experiment with different types to find the perfect match for your favourite dishes, and discover how a simple sprinkle can transform your cooking.

Got a question? Get in touch with our friendly team today.