Monday, December 08, 2008

Sicilian Sea Salt - A Gourmet Treat

According to Roman and Greek mythology, sea salt was historically known as "the union of the sun, sea, and the Sicilian land".

Vital and essential minerals from the sea, including iodine, calcium, magnesium, and potassium, are all preserved in this salt, allowing it to have a much lower percentage of sodium chloride, or "saltiness" than table salt. It has a delicate taste and wonderful and complex mineral flavor without being too concentrated.

Of all the sea salt available today, some of the most prized is from the Mediterranean Sea on the Northwest coast of Sicily in the Trapani region. Sicilian sea salt from Trapani is a highly sought-after and delicious condiment, full of both flavor and texture. This unrefined salt is unique for its taste and crunch.

The natural reserve saltpans in the Trapani region are renowned for their purity of salt. This all natural salt is hand harvested from the salt flats on the coast of the Mediterranean. The harvesting season for sea salt in Italy is between the months of June and September. The process uses salt pans that are filled with the seawater in the spring and left to evaporate by the heat of the Sicilian sun and strong African winds.

Harvesting takes place once the water has evaporated. The softball sized "salt rocks" are then crushed and ground without any further refining. The moist crystals and mineral-rich flavor make this sea salt ideal for both cooking and as a finishing touch. Its noticeable crunch makes it a perfect topping for grilled meats, salads, and tomatoes.

Enjoy the magnificent tastes and textures of authentic Sicilian sea salt from the beautiful shores of Trapani. It lends the delicate scent of the southern Mediterranean wind to every meal.

For a breath of the Mediterranean, try one or all of Vivande's outstanding House Packed Sicilian Sea Salts. Choose from Sea Salt with Fennel Pollen, Rosemary Flavored Sea Salt, Lavender Flavored Sea Salt, and Thyme Flavored Sea Salt. You can also select from one of our unflavored sea salts as well.

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