Are you the proud owner of a big chunk of Himalayan pink salt, but have no idea how to use it?
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many people struggle with breaking down this delicious and nutritious salt into usable pieces.
In this article, we’ll explore different methods for crushing Himalayan rock salt, so you can enjoy its benefits in your cooking or as a finishing touch.
From using a hammer and chisel to grinding it with a mortar and pestle, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and learn how to crush Himalayan rock salt like a pro!
How To Crush Himalayan Rock Salt?
Method 1: Hammer and Chisel
One of the easiest ways to crush Himalayan rock salt is by using a hammer and chisel. Start by placing the salt on a sturdy surface, such as a cutting board or countertop. Then, use a chisel and hammer to break off smaller pieces of the salt.
Once you have smaller pieces, use a hammer to crush them into finer pieces. Keep pounding until the salt is as finely broken up as you like.
Method 2: Power Drill
If you have a big chunk of rock salt that you don’t want to use all at once, you can use a power drill to weaken the chunk of salt first. Use a 3/8- or 1/2-inch bit in your power drill, with the longest shaft possible, to drill holes in the rock salt every two or three inches. Drill all over the surface of the rock salt.
Once you have drilled holes all over the surface of the rock salt, use a chisel and mallet to break off pieces of the now-weakened rock salt. Smash the chunks into smaller pieces with a hammer. Keep pounding with the hammer until the rock salt is as finely broken up as you like.
Method 3: Mortar and Pestle
Another popular method for crushing Himalayan rock salt is by using a mortar and pestle. This method is preferred by many because it is easier done by hand and allows for more control over the consistency of the crushed salt.
Start by placing small pieces of Himalayan rock salt in the mortar. Use the pestle to grind the salt into finer pieces. Continue grinding until you reach your desired consistency.
Method 4: Blender or Food Processor
If you have a blender or food processor, you can also use it to crush Himalayan rock salt. However, be careful not to damage your appliance’s blades.
Start by breaking down larger pieces of Himalayan rock salt into smaller chunks with a hammer or chisel. Then, place the smaller chunks in your blender or food processor and pulse until you reach your desired consistency.
Why Himalayan Rock Salt Is Worth Crushing
Himalayan rock salt is a unique natural salt that is produced from crushed Himalayan salt rocks. Unlike table salt, which is chemically cleaned at high temperatures and treated with anticaking agents, Himalayan rock salt is clean and devoid of any processing. As a result, it is frequently employed as the main ingredient in health and beauty products.
Himalayan rock salt contains potassium, magnesium, and calcium, as well as 84 other minerals. It is also known to regulate blood sugar, improve digestion, and help with respiratory problems when used in the air. Additionally, Himalayan rock salt is said to aid in detoxification and support cellular communication, electrolyte balance, and acid-alkaline balance.
Crushing Himalayan rock salt allows for easier use during cooking or as a finishing salt. It works well in a grinder bottle or can be crushed to a finer consistency with a mortar and pestle. It is delicious when used with chicken, red meat, fish, brines, and sauces.
The origin of Himalayan salt can be traced back 800 million years ago when a vast ocean evaporated, leaving behind a salt bed that was compacted by tectonic and climatic forces and buried by lava in the foothills of the Himalayan Range. The lava that surrounds the salt bed has made it impossible for other contaminants to enter. All grain sizes of rock salt are made by crushing and breaking down large salt blocks into very little crystals. To get a pure and raw form of Himalayan rock salt crystals, the entire procedure is entirely automated and laborers work by hand.
Tools You’ll Need For Crushing Himalayan Rock Salt
To crush Himalayan rock salt, you will need some basic tools. The tools required will depend on the method you choose to use. Here are the tools you’ll need for each method:
Method 1: Hammer and Chisel
– Hammer
– Chisel
– Cutting board or sturdy surface
Method 2: Power Drill
– Power drill
– 3/8- or 1/2-inch drill bit with a long shaft
– Chisel
– Mallet
– Cutting board or sturdy surface
Method 3: Mortar and Pestle
– Mortar and pestle
– Cutting board or sturdy surface
Method 4: Blender or Food Processor
– Blender or food processor
– Hammer or chisel
– Cutting board or sturdy surface
Make sure to use appropriate safety precautions when using any of these tools, especially when using a power drill or hammer and chisel. It’s also important to use a cutting board or other sturdy surface to prevent damage to your countertops or floors.
Method 1: Hammer And Chisel
Using a hammer and chisel is a simple and effective way to crush Himalayan rock salt. To start, place the salt on a sturdy surface such as a cutting board or countertop. Then, use a chisel and hammer to break off smaller pieces of the salt.
Once you have smaller pieces of salt, use a hammer to crush them into finer pieces. It’s recommended to wear shatter-proof protective glasses and sturdy leather or canvas gloves to protect your eyes and hands. Keep pounding with the hammer until the rock salt is as finely broken up as you like.
This method is ideal for those who don’t have access to power tools or prefer a more hands-on approach. It also allows for more control over the consistency of the crushed salt. Just be sure to take your time and work carefully to avoid any accidents or injuries.
Method 2: Crushing With A Mortar And Pestle
Using a mortar and pestle is a popular method for crushing Himalayan rock salt. This method is preferred by many because it allows for more control over the consistency of the crushed salt and can be done by hand.
To start, place small pieces of Himalayan rock salt in the mortar. Hold the mortar in place with one hand and use the pestle in the other hand to start smashing the salt with the force of your hand. When crushing spices, hold the mortar in such a way that it covers half of the mortar so that the spices do not get dispersed in the air.
You can manage the speed and strength with your hand according to the texture you want. When making sauce or paste, add water accordingly. It’s important to fill the mortar no more than 1/3 full of raw materials to ensure even grinding.
Continue grinding until you reach your desired consistency. This method may take longer than others, but it allows for a more hands-on approach and can be a satisfying process. Plus, you can use the mortar and pestle for other culinary tasks, making it a versatile tool in any kitchen.
Method 3: Using A Food Processor Or Blender
If you have a food processor or blender, you can use it to crush Himalayan rock salt. However, it’s important to note that the salt can damage the metal blades of your appliance. Therefore, it’s recommended that you use a plastic or ceramic blade mechanism.
Start by breaking down larger pieces of Himalayan rock salt into smaller chunks with a hammer or chisel. Then, place the smaller chunks in your blender or food processor and pulse until you reach your desired consistency. It’s important to pulse the salt instead of running the blender continuously to prevent overheating and damaging the blades.
If you’re using a food processor, it’s best to use the “pulse” setting instead of the “on” setting. This will allow you to control the consistency of the crushed salt and prevent over-processing.
Once you’ve achieved your desired consistency, transfer the crushed Himalayan rock salt to an airtight container for storage. You can use it in recipes that call for salt or as a finishing touch for dishes like grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and salads.
Tips For Storing Crushed Himalayan Rock Salt
Once you have crushed your Himalayan rock salt, it’s important to store it properly to maintain its quality and flavor. Here are some tips for storing crushed Himalayan rock salt:
1. Use airtight containers: Store your crushed Himalayan rock salt in airtight containers to prevent moisture from getting in, which can cause the salt to clump together.
2. Keep it dry: Make sure your crushed salt is completely dry before storing it. Any moisture can cause the salt to clump together and lose its flavor.
3. Store in a cool, dry place: Keep your crushed Himalayan rock salt in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and light can cause the salt to lose its flavor and color.
4. Label your containers: Label your containers with the date and type of salt to keep track of how long it has been stored and what type of salt it is.
5. Use within a reasonable time frame: Crushed Himalayan rock salt can last for several months if stored properly, but it’s best to use it within a reasonable time frame to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
