Maldon Salt and Pyramid Salt are two popular salts among the sea salt flakes in the world.

By now, it’s likely that you’re familiar with our beautiful Pyramid Salt. Its flavor is pure and pristine, and the texture of the delicate flakes is unmatched.

But we can’t deny that there are other options out there. There are many other salts on the market, some great, some not so great.

We’re going to dive into one brand in particular that has possibly made the largest splash in the sea of finishing salts: Maldon.

Yes, the name is synonymous with high-end finishing salts. Used by chefs and serious home cooks all over the world.

Let’s take a look at the similarities and differences between Maldon Salt and our own Pyramid Salt.

Overview of Maldon Salt

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Maldon Sea Salt Flakes is a premium sea salt that offers a distinct texture, clean flavor, and subtle sweetness.

Its delicate flakes and versatile nature makes it a beloved choice for enhancing the flavors of various dishes.

With its rich history, artisanal production process, and international recognition, Maldon Salt continues to be popular. And highly regarded ingredients in the culinary world.

What is Maldon Salt?

Maldon Flake Salt is a highly sought-after and prestigious variety of sea salt. It is revered for its unique and visually appealing characteristics. This salt also be known as Maldon Pyramid Salt, due to its shape.

It is produced using traditional methods that involve careful harvesting and processing.

Maldon Salt is renowned for its distinctive flake structure. Which is delicate, thin, and pyramid-shaped. These exquisite salt flakes provide a satisfying crunch and add a touch of elegance to dishes.

Maldon Salt Flakes reputation for quality and craftsmanship has made it a preferred choice among professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts worldwide.

It is widely recognized as a premium ingredient that enhances the texture and presentation of culinary creations.

Where is Maldon Salt from?

Maldon Sea Salt is made in Essex County England, in the town of Maldon, by the Maldon Crystal Salt Company. They’ve been making this world-class salt here for a long time – since 1882! The techniques they’ve been using have been passed down for four generations – and the company still remains in the original family.

How is Maldon Salt Made?

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To make the salt flakes, seawater is taken from estuaries. In situations of prolonged rainy weather, during which the estuaries are more filled with fresh water coming down to the sea than saltwater lapping in, they have to send barges out to bring seawater in.

This kind of weather explains why from time to time the salt will be hard to find in stores. Dry weather is good, as then the salt content in the estuaries will be high. The water is filtered, then put into large salt pans the size of several bathtubs together.

The pans are heated to a boil, then the heat is reduced. Crystals form and drop to the bottom of the salt pans. About 16 hours later, the crystals will float back up to the top, at which point the heat is turned off. The pans are allowed to cool overnight. Then in the morning, the salt is raked off the top. It is allowed to drain for 2 days, then it is dried in an oven.

The sea salt flakes themselves come in large, thin, uneven, crunchy flakes with a very clean, pure salt flavor. Because of its large size, it’s primarily meant to be used as a finishing salt. However, the flakes do melt quite well despite their size. So if crumbled, it can be used to season food as its cooking.

Flavor Profile of Maldon Salt:

Maldon Salt flakes are renowned for their unique flavor profile. Which sets it apart from other types of salt. It delivers a distinct but gentle saltiness. Unlike table salt, which can be overpowering. This flake salt offers a more balanced and nuanced salt flavor.

One of the notable qualities of Maldon Sea Salt is its subtle sweetness. The salt crystals contain trace minerals that contribute to a delicate hint of sweetness. Enhancing the overall flavor experience.

Maldon Salt has a mineral-rich taste due to the natural process of evaporation and harvesting. The salt retains essential minerals. Such as magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which impart a subtle complexity to its flavor.

This Finishing Salt is known for its clean and pure taste. It lacks any harsh or bitter aftertaste. Allowing it to elevate the natural flavors of ingredients without overwhelming them.

The flavor of Maldon finishing salt is not overpowering. Making it a versatile option for various culinary applications. It adds a subtle touch of seasoning. That enhances the overall taste without dominating the dish.

Overview of Pyramid Salt

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Pyramid Salt, also known as pyramid-shaped salt. It is a unique salt variety that stands out for its distinctive shape and texture.

Its versatility as a finishing salt adds both visual appeal and a satisfying crunch to a wide range of dishes. Incorporating Pyramid Salt crystals into your culinary creations can elevate the overall taste experience. And enhance the presentation of your meals.

What is Pyramid Salt?

Our own Pyramid Salt crystals on the other hand are a bit of a different beast. A true Mediterranean delight, it hails from Cyprus Greece. Officially called the Republic of Cyprus, it is an island country in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The third largest and third most populous island in the Mediterranean. Cyprus is a beautiful place, and the art of making salt there dates back centuries.

Early Cypriots would use the newly formed sea salt to preserve various meats, fish, and even vegetables. One popular dish from the area involves cooking a whole fish – packed entirely in the famous local salt.

How to make Pyramid Salt Flakes?

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The unique pyramid shape of the Pyramid Salt is created through the process of solar evaporation of seawater where the water is channeled into a chain of shallow ponds or lagoons and then into large pans where the water is gradually heated, forming the pyramid shapes of the salt. The process continues until the salt reaches 3% humidity, and can take up to two years to complete.

Flavor Profile of Pyramid Salt:

Pyramid Salt, with its natural pyramid shape and exquisite texture, offers a unique flavor profile. It adds a delightful sensory experience to dishes. Here's a breakdown of the flavor characteristics of Pyramid Salt:

Salt Pyramid boasts a clean and pure taste. It provides a subtle and balanced saltiness that elevates the overall taste of a dish.

The saltiness of Pyramid Salt is moderate, offering a pleasant seasoning effect. It strikes a harmonious balance. Allowing the flavors of other ingredients to shine while providing the necessary enhancement.

Pyramid Salt Flakes carry a delicate hint of brininess, reminiscent of the sea. This characteristic adds a subtle complexity to dishes. Particularly seafood-based preparations. Enhancing their flavor and bringing a touch of the ocean.

One of the standout features of Pyramid Salt is its exquisite texture. The coarse pyramid-shaped crystals provide a satisfying crunch when bitten into.

Along with its taste and texture, the natural pyramid shape of the salt crystals contributes to the visual appeal of dishes. The unique pyramid-shaped salt adds an element of elegance and sophistication to the presentation. It’s an ideal finishing salt.

Pyramid Salt usages:

Pyramid Salt is known for its dazzling and distinctive pyramid shape, light texture, and mild taste. This gourmet flake salt is ideal for use in cooking, and baking. And as a garnishing salt for fish and vegetable dishes. The delicate crystals can be crushed in the fingers to make a finer-grained salt, or the whole crystals can be used for a toothsome crunch. Use it to top a slice of rare seared beef or add some texture to a caramelized sea scallop. It also works wonderfully on pastries – like a savory spanakopita or a rich dark chocolate mousse.

Comparison: Pyramid Salt vs Maldon Salt

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When it comes to selecting the best flake salt for your culinary creations. It's essential to understand the differences between various types.

In this comparison guide, we will explore the characteristics, flavors, and culinary uses of two popular salts: Pyramid Salt and Maldon Salt.

By examining their unique attributes, you can make an informed choice based on your preferences and desired outcome.

Source and Production Process:

Pyramid Salt:

Pyramid salt is harvested from natural salt evaporation ponds or salt mines. The saltwater is pumped into large ponds and left to evaporate under the sun. Forming pyramid-shaped salt crystals.

Maldon Salt:

Maldon salt is sourced from seawater in Essex, England. The production process involves collecting seawater, filtering it, and then evaporating it. The resulting salt flakes are hand-harvested.

Texture and Shape:

Pyramid Salt:

Pyramid sea salt variety features coarse, pyramid-shaped crystals. The unique shape provides a satisfying crunch and adds visual appeal to dishes.

Maldon Salt:

Maldon salt is renowned for its delicate, pyramid-shaped flakes. The flakes are thin, lightweight, and offer a delightful crunchy texture.

Flavor and Taste:

Pyramid Salt:

Salt Pyramid Crystals has a clean and mild flavor, with a subtle hint of brininess. It enhances the natural flavors of ingredients without overpowering them.

Maldon Salt:

Maldon salt is known for its distinctive, mild saltiness. It imparts a slightly sweet and mineral-rich taste, enhancing the flavors of both savory and sweet dishes.

Culinary Applications:

Pyramid Salt:

Due to its coarse texture and mild flavor, pyramid salt is ideal for finishing dishes. It works well as a finishing salt on grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and salads. Pyramid-shaped salt crystals add a delightful crunch and enhance the overall presentation.

Maldon Salt:

Maldon salt is versatile and can be used at various stages of cooking. It is often used as a finishing salt to sprinkle on roasted vegetables, grilled fish, or caramel desserts. It can also dissolve quickly and evenly in brines and marinades.

Availability and Pricing:

Both salts are available online at Lafayette Spices. They are reasonably priced.  It is considered a premium salt and is typically more expensive than regular table salt.

Which Salt Should You Choose?

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Choosing the right sea salt flakes for your culinary endeavors depends on various factors. Including personal preference, desired flavor profile, texture requirements, and the specific dish being prepared.

While both Pyramid Salt and Maldon Salt have their unique characteristics. Here are some considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Choose Pyramid Salt if:

• You prefer a coarse texture and enjoy the satisfying crunch of salt crystals.
• You desire a mild and clean salt flavor. That enhances the natural taste of ingredients without overpowering them.
• You want a versatile finishing salt. That can be used in a wide range of savory and sweet dishes.
• The visual appeal of natural pyramid-shaped salt crystals complements your presentation.

Choose Maldon Salt if:

• You prefer a delicate and flaky texture that melts quickly on the palate.
• You enjoy a mild saltiness with subtle sweet notes and mineral richness.
• You desire a versatile salt. That can be used as a finishing touch or dissolved evenly in brines and marinades.
• You appreciate the traditional, hand-harvested process and the unique flavor it imparts.

Ultimately, the choice between Pyramid Salt and Maldon Salt comes down to personal preference and the specific dish you are preparing. Consider the texture, flavor profile, and culinary applications that align with your taste and desired outcome.

Additionally, it can be enjoyable to have both finishing salt flakes on hand to explore. And experiment with their distinct characteristics. Many chefs and home cooks find that having a selection of salts allows for greater creativity in their culinary creations.

Remember to consider factors such as availability, pricing, and convenience when making your decision. Whether you choose Pyramid Salt or Maldon Salt. Both options offer a delightful way to enhance the flavors and elevate your cooking to new heights.

Conclusion

You can see why, although the salts are similar, they’re in fact two very different seasonings! It would be fun to experiment with the two together. See what salty flakes work better on which ingredients and preparation.

Believe it or not, salt is a wide spectrum, and Pyramid Salt and Maldon are just two of the tools in your bag. Get cooking!