Salt is one of the simplest yet most important ingredients in your kitchen. However, not all salts are the same – there’s a whole world of flavours, textures, and colours. When choosing to swap our regular table salt, many people opt for Himalayan salt.
But what’s the difference between Himalayan salt and normal salt? From where they come from and their benefits to how they taste on your tongue, this guide breaks down every detail so you can choose the right one for your cooking and wellbeing.
Key Insights
- Himalayan pink salt is mined in Pakistan and gets its pink colour from trace minerals, while table salt is refined, often with added iodine and anti-caking agents for consistency.
- Himalayan salt is minimally processed and comes in coarse, flaky, or fine textures. On the other hand, table salt is fine-grained, sharp in taste, and ideal for baking or precise measurements.
- Both salts season food effectively, but their flavour, texture, and uses differ.
The Basics of Himalayan Salt
Himalayan pink salt is a natural rock salt mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in the Salt Range mountains in Pakistan, near the foothills of the Himalayas. Its pinkish colour comes from trace minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium.
It’s usually less processed than regular table salt with zero bleaching or heavy refining. The crystals are hand-extracted, rinsed, dried, and sometimes ground into fine or coarse textures. Some people value it for both its flavour and the subtle mineral boost it can bring to food.
Exploring different natural salts? Discover Bolivian rose salt and its benefits, another mineral-rich option with its own distinct flavour profile.
Next, Regular Table Salt
Table salt is the most common salt you’ll find in households. It’s usually mined from underground salt deposits, then refined to remove impurities. Most table salt contains added iodine (to help prevent iodine deficiency) and anti-caking agents to stop it from clumping.
This makes it consistent in taste, texture, and measurement, which makes it a go-to for baking and everyday cooking. However, some people prefer natural salts, as table salt can taste slightly sharper.
If you’re curious about other types of salts, learn what kosher salt is or give our range of Celtic sea salt in Australia a try.
The Differences Between Himalayan Salt and Normal Salt
Origins
Himalayan pink salt is mined from the ancient Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan, formed millions of years ago when ancient seas evaporated. Its beautiful pink tones come from naturally occurring minerals in the rock. Table salt, on the other hand, is typically sourced from underground salt deposits or evaporated seawater, then refined in large-scale facilities. The origins alone can influence not only the texture and flavour but also how each salt is marketed and used in the kitchen.
Processing
Himalayan salt is minimally processed. After mining, it’s simply rinsed, dried, and ground into different grain sizes. Table salt, in contrast, goes through extensive refining to remove minerals and impurities, leaving nearly pure sodium chloride. Iodine is often added to table salt as a public health measure, along with anti-caking agents to keep it flowing freely.
Mineral Content
One of the main differences between Himalayan salt and normal salt is the mineral content. Himalayan salt contains trace amounts of minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium. While these minerals don’t contribute significant nutrition, they can subtly influence flavour. Table salt is almost pure sodium chloride, with added iodine and no additional minerals.
Texture & Use
Texture is where these salts really diverge. Himalayan pink salt comes in coarse chunks, delicate flakes, and fine grains, making it versatile for both cooking and finishing dishes. Its larger crystals give a gentle crunch when sprinkled on top of food. Table salt is consistently fine-grained, making it perfect for baking and recipes where even seasoning is essential.
Flavour
While taste differences are subtle, they’re noticeable to some. Himalayan salt often has a slightly earthy flavour and mild sweetness. Table salt delivers a sharper, more concentrated saltiness. If you’re after a softer finish on fresh foods, Himalayan salt is a great choice. For cooking where the salt will dissolve completely, table salt works just fine.
Himalayan Salt Benefits
While both types of salt share the same basic role in seasoning food, Himalayan salt offers some benefits:
- Trace Minerals: Magnesium, calcium, and potassium in small amounts may add to overall mineral intake.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Its soft pink colour makes it a favourite for garnishing dishes.
- Variety of Use: Works well in cooking, finishing dishes, or even in salt lamps and bath salts.
- Different Texture Options: Perfect for both seasoning during cooking and adding crunch at the table.
That said, the mineral content in Himalayan salt is too low to replace other nutrient sources in your diet, so moderation is key.
Your Himalayan Salt vs Table Salt Cheatsheet
Which Should You Choose?
When choosing between Himalayan salt vs table salt, it depends on how you use salt in your cooking. Use table salt when you need precise, reliable measurements, especially in baking. Meanwhile, Himalayan pink salt is perfect for adding a gentle crunch, extra flavour dimension, or a pop of colour to a finished dish.
Here are some cooking tips we love:
- Coarse Himalayan salt takes longer to dissolve, so it’s best for seasoning during or after cooking, not for delicate baking.
- Measure carefully. Himalayan salt flakes are larger, and a teaspoon may contain less sodium than the same measure of table salt.
- Pair with the right dishes. Himalayan salt shines on grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or sprinkled over salads. Table salt blends well in soups, sauces, and baked goods.
How to Store Your Salt for Freshness
Whichever salt you use, store it well so it stays clump-free. Use airtight containers, keep it away from steam and humidity, and use clean, dry utensils. If you live somewhere humid, a few grains of rice in the shaker can help. For bulk storage, go for food-safe silica gel packs or moisture absorbers.
For more comprehensive tips, explore our guide and learn how to keep salt fresh and ready for use.
Find the Perfect Scoop for Your Kitchen
Whether you prefer the mineral-rich crunch of Himalayan pink salt or the reliable consistency of table salt, both have their place in the kitchen. The key is knowing when and how to use each for the best flavour and texture. Browse Organics on a Budget’s range and keep your pantry stocked with salts you’ll enjoy using.