You’ve probably heard of fleur de sel, but do you know exactly what it is and why it’s so valued? This “white gold” from salt flats not only enhances the flavor of food, but is also a natural source of minerals essential for health. In Portugal, the Tavira salt mines stand out as one of the places where tradition and nature combine to produce this excellent ingredient.
What is fleur de sel?
Fleur de sel is composed of the first crystals that form on the surface of salt flats during the seawater evaporation process. These delicate crystals, which float in shallow clay tanks, are collected by hand under specific temperature and wind conditions, a traditional method that preserves their purity and quality.
Unlike refined salt, fleur de sel does not undergo any chemical processing, which gives it a richer nutritional profile. It is a natural source of minerals such as iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc and iodine, among others. “It has at least 84 elements that are good for the body and is also free of chemical additives that are harmful to your health”, highlight experts in the area of healthy eating.
Health benefits
Considered a “purer” salt, fleur de sel is valued not only for its mild flavor and crunchy texture, but also for the benefits it brings to the body. Its minerals help regulate bodily functions such as fluid balance and muscle health, while the absence of chemical additives makes it a healthier alternative to conventional salt.
However, like all types of salt, consumption should be moderate. Its high concentration of sodium requires that it be used sparingly, even though it is a more natural and nutrient-rich option.
The Tavira salt flats: tradition and sustainability
In Portugal, the Tavira salt pans, in the Algarve, are an emblematic example of the artisanal production of fleur de sel. Located in the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve, these salt pans combine ancestral practices with a sustainable approach, respecting the balance of the local ecosystem. Collection is done manually, using techniques passed down from generation to generation, ensuring a high quality product with reduced environmental impact.
Tavira’s fleur de sel, in addition to being a symbol of Algarve culture, is a product highly sought after by chefs and food lovers around the world. Its delicate texture and distinct flavor elevate simple dishes to a gourmet level, making it indispensable in the modern kitchen.
Much more than a seasoning
For those looking for an alternative to refined salt, fleur de sel is a choice that combines flavor, health and sustainability. By using it, you are not only enriching your dishes with a special touch, but also enhancing a product that reflects the harmony between man and nature, especially in the salt flats of Tavira, where the sea and the sun work together to create this unique ingredient.
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