Everything You Need To Know About Finishing Salt

Sponsored by Tuscanini

Today, I’m talking to you about one of the most important ingredients that I work with: salt.

But not just any salt; we’re talking about finishing salt.

Many home cooks don’t understand why finishing salt is used or why it’s important. Salts from different parts of the world have different characteristics and they deserve to be highlighted.

At Mike’s Bistro, finishing salt is one of the most important ingredients we use, so it’s time to introduce it to the home cook as well.

What is finishing salt?

Unlike table salt found in every home kitchen, finishing salt is only used right before you’re ready to eat. Think of it as a last minute add-on. Finishing salts boast many distinctive characteristics related not merely to their place of origin but also the unique flavors and textures that add so much depth to a dish. Each type of finishing salt has the potential to elevate a meal from mundane to extraordinary.

A sprinkling of finishing salt would add a tremendous amount of flavor and texture to slices of ripe tomatoes, seared tuna, or steak. Surprisingly versatile, smoked finishing salt finds its place in the realm of sweets, adding the perfect finishing touch to fresh melon (my personal favorite) and chocolate truffles.

Tuscanini sells both Smoked Finishing Salt and Sea Salt Flakes on Amazon.

Price point

Despite its premium price point, a little finishing salt goes a long way. A single box can last an eternity, so you’re actually getting a great bang for your buck in the long run.

Folks, finishing salt is not complicated. It’s easy to use, shelf stable, lasts a long time, and has so many uses. It’s a testament to the notion that true culinary mastery lies not in complexity, but in the thoughtful application of the simplest ingredients.

So, the next time you reach for that humble box of salt, consider the power of finishing salt instead and let it elevate your culinary creations to new heights!

You can watch my episode of “Now You Know” here, where I talk all about finishing salts!

About the author

Michael Gershkovich

1 article • 12 recipes • 17 videos

Chef Michael Gershkovich went to the famed Culinary Institute of America, in Hyde Park, New York. After a few years honing his skills back in New York City, Mike built Mike’s Bistro, a showcase for his cuisine. The restaurant is simple and elegant, refined and relaxed. You can wear jeans or a suit, you can drink beer or champagne. Truly, it is all about the food. This is food your mother would make if she were a classically trained chef. The cuisine is grounded yet manages to be interesting enough to demand multiple visits. Visiting his restaurant is like coming over to Mike’s house for dinner. Family is everywhere, welcoming you at the door, cooking your food, serving your drinks. Mike visits as many tables as he can each evening, mostly to talk about the food. This is his dream come true, his passion and his life. The fences have been rebuilt, and this grass is definitely greener.

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