Fleur de sel: The luxurious culinary treasure rediscovered

She is unique. She is formed at a high temperature when seawater and warm air cause salt to crystallize on the ocean's surface. She is also called the fruit of the sun, air, and water. She is used primarily in culinary arts. Have you heard of Fleur de sel?

In French, this salt is called fleur de sel, which means flower of salt. This designation is not accidental; its crystals resemble tiny, delicate flower petals. How else does it differ from the salt we use every day?

The history of fleur de sel goes back thousands of years. As far back as antiquity, it was considered a treasure and was used in cooking, medicine, and religious rituals. To this day, fleur de sel is recognized as a luxury product, which affects its price. It is harvested from the first thin layer of salt that forms on the surface of salt pans during the evaporation of seawater. This requires excellent precision and experience.

Producing fleur de sel is an art that requires ideal atmospheric conditions. The best quality salt is obtained in regions with sunshine, little rainfall, and wind. These factors allow for the natural evaporation of seawater, which leaves tiny, clean crystals on the surface of the salt pans.

The process begins by introducing seawater into unique pools called salt pans. Then, under the influence of the sun and wind, the water evaporates, forming thin layers of salt on its surface. These are collected manually, using only wooden tools. Fleur de sel has a delicate structure, so it must be harvested carefully to avoid damage.

Fleur de sel is mainly produced along the Atlantic coast, especially in France. The most well-known salt pans are in places like Guérande, Camargue, and Île de Ré. This is where the best and purest fleur de sel comes from, valued by chefs worldwide. This salt is also produced in Portugal, Spain, and Mallorca.

Fleur de sel stands out for its appearance, chemical composition, and flavour properties. The crystals of this salt are larger and more brittle than ordinary sea salt. Moreover, they are delicate and slightly moist, less dried, allowing them to retain their full flavours and aromas. It also contains more minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, and potassium, giving it a unique taste and health benefits.

Fleur de sel is a true star among salts. Traditional table salt is produced on an industrial scale and is often purified of natural minerals. Fleur de sel remains in its original form. As a result, it retains all its nutritional components, making it not only tastier but also healthier.

Due to its unique properties, fleur de sel is mainly used as an exclusive addition to already prepared dishes rather than during cooking or baking. Its delicate salt crystals add crunchiness and greatly enhance the flavour. They pair perfectly with salads, fish, meat, and even desserts.

Popular dishes using fleur de sel include steaks, where adding a few crystals to the hot surface of the meat enhances its aroma. This salt is also excellent for chocolate desserts, giving them a subtle flavour.