Is Murray River Salt Used for Cooking or Finishing?

If you’ve ever fancied yourself a gourmet chef, you’ve likely come across the pink-hued gem that is Murray River Salt. This Australian delight isn’t just a pretty face; it’s packed with flavour and an unforgettable crunch that elevates any dish from mundane to magnificent. 

But the big question on every food lover’s lips is: should you cook with it, or save it for that final, dramatic finish? 

Let’s find out!

Difference Between Cooking and Finishing with Salt

Choosing whether to cook with Murray River Salt or use it as a finishing touch depends on what you’re looking to achieve.

Ultimately, the best way to use Murray River Salt is to combine both methods. Cook with it to build a flavourful foundation, and finish with it to add that final touch of perfection. It’s a versatile ingredient that shines in any role, making it a must-have in every kitchen.

Need to know how? Let’s further explore how you can incorporate Murray River Salt into your cooking!

Cooking with Murray River Salt Flakes

Using Murray River Salt during cooking infuses your dishes with a mild, balanced saltiness. Its mineral-rich composition means it melts quickly and distributes evenly, making it perfect for:

1. Subtle Flavour Enhancement: Murray River Salt has a more delicate flavour compared to regular table salt. When used in cooking, it can enhance the natural flavours of your ingredients without overwhelming them. Think of it as the background singer that makes the lead star shine even brighter.

2. Even Distribution: Thanks to its fine, flaky texture, this salt dissolves quickly and evenly, ensuring your dishes are perfectly seasoned throughout. Whether you’re boiling pasta, simmering soups, or roasting vegetables, a pinch of Murray River Salt can make a world of difference.

3. Healthier Option: With its higher mineral content and lower sodium levels compared to processed table salt, cooking with Murray River Salt can be a healthier choice for your daily meals. Plus, those extra minerals add a subtle complexity to your dishes.

Finishing with Murray River Salt Flakes

Now, here’s where Murray River Salt truly shines – quite literally – as a finishing salt. Here’s why:

1. Visual Appeal: Those pretty pink flakes are not just for show. Sprinkling them on top of a dish right before serving adds a touch of elegance and visual appeal. Imagine a perfectly grilled steak with a final flourish of pink salt – it’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.

2. Textural Delight: Murray River Salt’s light, flaky texture adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of a perfectly cooked piece of meat, fish, or even dessert. It’s the secret weapon for adding a burst of texture to your final bite.

3. Flavour Burst: As a finishing salt, it provides an immediate burst of salty goodness. This is perfect for dishes where you want to highlight specific flavours without them getting lost in the mix. A sprinkle on chocolate brownies, caramel desserts, or even a fresh salad can elevate your dish from good to gourmet.

4. Showcasing the Salt: Using it as a finishing salt means you’re showcasing the unique qualities of Murray River Salt – its beautiful colour, texture, and delicate flavour – in the best possible way. It’s a testament to the ingredient itself, allowing it to be appreciated in its purest form.

What chefs have said about cooking with Murray River Salt flakes

Matt Preston, food critic and TV presenter, has been using and praising Murray River Pink Salt for nearly a decade. He often gifts it to chefs and foodies overseas, valuing its unique Australian origin, attractive appearance, and the crunch and burst of flavour it adds to dishes. Preston highlights its role as a finishing salt, likening it to “the people’s caviar” and an affordable luxury for any kitchen.

Karen Martini, Australian chef and TV presenter, emphasises the importance of unrefined salts like Murray River Salt in her cooking. She appreciates its natural trace elements and its ability to enhance both raw and cooked dishes. Martini describes it “caresses food beautifully” with its gentle, almost sweet flavour and the slight crunch of its easily crushed flakes. She always keeps it on hand, even travelling with it, as it beautifully enhances the flavour of her dishes.

So next time you’re in the kitchen, don’t just settle for any salt. Reach for Murray River Salt and let its pink crystals turn your meals into masterpieces. Happy cooking, and even happier eating!