Salt grinders have become an essential part of many kitchens. These handy tools allow you to freshly grind salt to elevate the flavor of your dishes. However, not all salts are suitable for use in a grinder. Whether you’re new to cooking or just wondering about what kind of salt to put in a grinder, this guide will help you make the right choice.

In this guide, we’ll cover the most common salt types and what kind of salt goes in a salt grinder. We’ll also dive into the salts you should avoid putting in a grinder and highlight some tips for choosing salt for your salt grinder or mill to help you make an informed decision. Dive in now!

What kind of salt goes in a salt grinder

What Kind of Salt Do You Put in a Salt Grinder?

When it comes to using a salt grinder, choosing the right salt is essential to ensure a smooth grinding experience. So what is the best salt to use in a grinder? While many salts can technically work in a grinder, the following salts are best suited for the task:

Kosher Salt

Can you put kosher salt in a salt grinder? Sure. Kosher salt, especially the coarse kosher salt, is the most commonly recommended salt for grinders. Its coarse, flaky crystals make it easy to grind and add a delicate flavor without being too overpowering. Kosher salt is often preferred by chefs due to its clean taste and versatility. However, make sure you're using the coarser varieties as finer kosher salt may clog your grinder.

Coarse Himalayan Pink Salt

Himalayan pink salt is not only a visually stunning addition to any grinder, but it also offers a unique, mild flavor due to its mineral content. It is available in various crystal sizes, with larger coarse crystals being best suited for grinders. Himalayan salt is free from chemicals and can be used to enhance your dishes naturally.

Coarse Sea Salt

Can you put sea salt in a grinder? Yes, coarse sea salt is one of the best options for salt grinders. Its large crystals are easy to grind, and it provides a burst of fresh, mineral-rich flavor. Available in various textures, it is ideal for use in grinders, allowing you to control the coarseness based on your preferences. Coarse sea salt is also free from additives, making it a clean and natural choice for seasoning.

Fleur de Sel

Fleur de sel is a high-quality, hand-harvested sea salt that comes in delicate, moist crystals, which is another excellent option for what type of salt for grinder. While it’s often used as a finishing salt, you can also use it in grinders, particularly if you enjoy a more refined texture. Just be aware that its delicate nature may require a grinder with a fine mechanism to break it down into manageable pieces.

What Types of Salt to Avoid in a Grinder?

After we know what kind of salt to use in a salt grinder, we should also note that not all salts are suitable for use in these salt or pepper mills. Here are some types of salt you should avoid putting in a grinder:

Table Salt

No matter which salt for grinding, it should not be table salt. Table salt is highly refined and contains additives such as anti-caking agents. These additives can clog the grinder mechanism and reduce its efficiency over time. The fine texture of table salt also makes it unsuitable for grinding as it won't provide the same texture or flavor impact as coarser salts.

Sea Salt with Additives

Some sea salts contain minerals or flavorings like herbs or spices. These added ingredients can potentially damage the grinder, clogging the mechanism or interfering with its grinding process. Always check the salt's composition before using it in a grinder.

Himalayan Pink Salt (Finely Ground

While Himalayan pink salt can be used in grinders, the finely ground version may clog the mechanism. If you prefer Himalayan salt, opt for the larger crystals designed specifically for grinders.

Rock Salt

Rock salt, often used for de-icing, is too coarse and hard for most grinders. The large crystals can cause significant damage to the grinder's grinding mechanism, leading to potential malfunction or wear.

Tips for Using the Right Salt in Your Salt Grinder

In addition to understanding what salt is best for a grinder, choosing the right salt and using it properly are also essential to make the most out of your salt grinder. Here are some helpful tips to guide you:

Choose Coarse or Crystal Salt: For the best performance, always use coarse salts like coarse sea salt, kosher salt, or Himalayan pink salt. Fine salt can clog your grinder and prevent it from functioning properly. Coarse salts are easier to grind and give you a better texture.

Avoid Additives or Anti-Caking Agents: Always check the salt’s ingredients before using it in your grinder. Avoid salts that contain anti-caking agents, as they can damage your grinder and may leave an unpleasant residue. Opt for natural, additive-free salts for the best flavor and performance.

Don’t Overfill the Grinder: No matter what type of salt goes in the grinder, don't fill it to the top, overfilling can cause the grinder to jam or not function properly. Leave a little space for the salt to move freely and ensure smooth grinding.

Use the Right Grinder for Different Salts: Not all salt grinders are created equal. Some are designed specifically for larger crystals like Himalayan or sea salt, while others may work better with smaller crystals like kosher salt. Choose a popular and generic salt and pepper grinder like the electric SCHWUA Pepper and Salt Grinder, and ensure your grinder is compatible with the salt type you plan to use.

Clean the Grinder Regularly: Salt can attract moisture over time, especially in humid environments. To keep your grinder in top shape, clean it regularly to avoid salt buildup, which could affect the grinding performance.

Schwua pepper and salt grinder

Conclusion

Now you know what kind of salt you use in a salt grinder, which is key to getting the most out of your seasoning. Generally, choose coarse salt to buy for a grinder, such as Kosher salt, coarse Himalayan pink salt, sea salt, etc, as their larger crystals are perfect for grinding. To ensure a smooth experience, avoid fine table salt, as it can clog the grinder mechanism. Whether you're cooking at home or looking to add a little flair to your dishes, remember to buy a good-quality salt grinder and the right salt to make all the difference in flavor and convenience.