Flavored finishing salts is something that makes a wonderful gift. Mini canning jars, a few fancy labels and a gift bag can turn a few ingredients into an easy to make gift for any foodie! Here are 5 recipes for my favorite finishing salts. For a smoky twist, do this final step: spread salt mixture on a baking sheet and place into a preheated smoker 225 degrees for 12-20 minutes until desired smokey flavor is achieved.
CHILI LIME SALT RECIPE
This fiery blend of red pepper flakes and tangy lime is amazing over fajitas, taco, french fries with chipotle mayo, and, um, just about everything in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Makes about ¼ cup –
- ¼ cup unrefined salt
- 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 1½ teaspoons fresh organic lime zest
Instructions
Using the microplane zester or cheese grater, remove the outer zest from the lime. Make sure not to peel off the bitter white pith, just the outside will do. Lay zest on a towel and allow to air dry for a few hours, then combine with salt and crushed red pepper flakes. Pour salt into a pretty jar and use liberally.
SRIRACHA SALT RECIPE
This fiery finishing salt is delightful over fried, eggs, grilled chicken, roasted veggies, and even salads.
Ingredients
Makes about ¼ cup –
- ¼ cup salt
- 1 tablespoon sriracha
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350F. Mix sriracha and salt together and spread over a baking sheet. Turn off the oven and then place salt inside and let it sit for 3-4 hours, or until fully dried out.
VANILLA SALT RECIPE
Served with strawberries or sprinkled over chocolate, this delicate salt adds a surprising pop of flavor to sweets and treats.
Ingredients
Makes about ¼ cup
- ¼ cup salt
- 1-2 vanilla beans
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Coffee grinder
Instructions
Using a sharp knife, cut a slit down the entire length of the vanilla bean. Then, with the tip of your knife, scrape out the seeds in the center, which should have a paste-like consistency. Place a small amount of salt in the coffee grinder with the vanilla beans and pulse until completely combined. Add the vanilla/salt mixture to the rest of the salt and thoroughly mix with a spoon.
Everything tastes better with a little bit of seasoning. What about Bacon Salt! A'mazing!
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500g/1 pound bacon
-
1.5 tablespoons good quality sea salt
-
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
Step 1 - Preheat oven to 180C/350F and place a rack on top of a baking tray (line with foil if you want to minimize the cleaning necessary). Cook bacon for 15-20 minutes checking after 15 minutes and drain on paper towels removing any excess fat.
Step 2 - Cool slightly and then place the bacon, salt and pepper in a food processor and blitz until fine (or as fine as you want). Store in the fridge in an airtight container and extend the life of this by using a clean spoon every time you use it.
ROSEMARY & LEMON SALT RECIPE
This herbaceous finishing salt is delicious when sprinkled over pasta, soups, fish and salads.
Ingredients
Makes about ¼ cup –
- 1½ teaspoons dried lemon zest
- 1½ teaspoons dried organic rosemary
- ¼ cup salt
Instructions
Using the microplane zester or cheese grater, remove the outer zest from the lemon. Make sure not to peel off the bitter white pith, just the outside will do. Lay zest on a towel and allow to air dry for a few hours, then combine with remaining ingredients and transfer to a jar for storage/use.