Fleur de sel is an expensive sea salt with some unique qualities that help to justify the price. Kosher salt is much more affordable and brings a different set of assets to the table. How do they compare? Let’s dive into the similarities and differences between these two types of salt and what that means for your cooking.
Table of Contents
- How does fleur de sel differ from kosher salt?
- Can you use fleur de sel in place of kosher salt? And vice versa?
- When should you use fleur de sel? And when should you use kosher salt?
- Must-read related posts
How does fleur de sel differ from kosher salt?
Fleur de sel has the higher moisture content of the two salts. The fact that it contains magnesium chloride and calcium chloride means that the minerals in the salt dissolve faster. This ensures that fleur de sel can be detected on the taste buds quicker than kosher salt’s crystals.
Kosher salt is dryer than fleur de sel. The large crystal size of kosher salt slows the rate at which it dissolves, so it will stick around in crystal form for longer. It actually gets its name from koshering, which is the process of drawing the blood out of meat. Its large crystals make it good at doing this. This property also means that it will add a satisfying crunch to your dishes when used as a finishing salt.
Kosher salt is typically from the same mined salt used to make table salt. It can have a flat shape (like a plate or flakes) or be shaped like a pyramid because of special processing techniques. Its source differs from that of fleur de sel, which is a sea salt harvested of the coast of Brittany, France. In order to harvest fleur de sel, the salt crystals are skimmed from the surface of evaporation ponds.
Can you use fleur de sel in place of kosher salt? And vice versa?
Both are salty and can provide a clean salt flavor. Neither is iodized, so there is no risk that your dishes will have the slightly bitter notes that some people detect in food seasoned with iodized salt. Unlike iodized salt, both can be used in pickling without any negative effects on fermentation.
Fleur de sel can replace kosher salt as a finishing salt in many dishes. It can provide an attractive look while also providing a burst of saltiness in each bite, though it will not be as crunchy or last as long without dissolving as kosher salt. It does have a stronger briny aroma (from the sea water) when compared to kosher salt, which is relatively odorless. This may be beneficial in some dishes, but not in others.
Kosher salt can serve as a fleur de sel substitute in some dishes and will work just as well in those where the briny aroma of fleur de sel is not quite as important. You should also note that the crystals may not dissolve quite as quickly as those of fleur de sel, so you may not get the initial burst of flavor for which fleur de sel is famous.
–> Learn More: What’s A Good Fleur De Sel Substitute?
When should you use fleur de sel? And when should you use kosher salt?
Fleur de sel offers a much less obvious crunch when compared to kosher salt due to its moister, more delicate crystals. It also tends to dissolve more readily on the tongue. Use fleur de sel in dishes that can benefit from the oceanic aroma and the clean, intense saltiness.
Because kosher salt takes longer to dissolve, you can use it in dishes where you want the visual flair that a sprinkle of large salt crystals can bring to a dish. In addition, use it in dishes that will be improved by the added crunch.
Must-read related posts
- Fleur De Sel Vs. Himalayan Salt: How do these two ingredients compare in terms of taste and texture?
- Too Much Salt? Did that pinch go too far? Had a heavy hand? Here are ways to fix your dish.
- What Are Great Substitutes For Kosher Salt? What are your options if you are looking for bigger flakes?