Alaea Sea Salt
 
Harvested in: Hawaii 
Flavor Profile: Rich. Salty. Sweet. 
Certifications:  Non-GMO, Gluten Free, Kosher Certified
 
While based in the Hawaiian islands, I have had the chance to discover some of the world's most exquisite culinary ingredients. A few years ago, I came across an unusual and exotic ingredient that piqued my interest: Hawaiian Alaea Sea Salt. I was unaware that this salt had an intriguing past and cultural significance.
 
The Alaea Sea Salt is a coarse-grained salt that has been combined with red volcanic mud, giving it a distinctive crimson hue. The name is derived from the Hawaiian word "alaea," which means "earth" or "clay." Native Hawaiians have used this salt in traditional ceremonies, for medicinal purposes, and to preserve meats and fish for centuries.
 
This salt exceeded my expectations, and I was excited to try it out in my cooking. Its earthy, faintly sweet flavor and crisp texture gave my dishes a new dimension. I used it to season seafood broiled over charcoal, roasted vegetables, and even homemade chocolate.
 
One of my favorite dishes prepared with Alaea Sea Salt is Mahi-Mahi with coconut rice and pineapple salsa. The sweetness of the pineapple and nuttiness of the coconut rice complement the rich, piquant flavor of the salmon, which the Alaea Sea Salt accentuates.