Finishing salts again

[Jenise]

A friend just tipped me off about this spice purveyor that sells spices etc in bulk, including finishing salts. You can buy as little as an ounce, for anyone who wants to try a variety for the smallest investment. And they have some interesting seasonings not even Penzey's has, like avocado leaf.

http://worldspice.com/spices.shtml

Looking at their salts, though, I'd comment that their black Hawaiian lava salt looks gray just like my smoked alder salt (Artisan brand, both), and my black Hawaiian salt is much prettier. Mine is jet black and shiny, like a tiny gravel of obsidian rock, a dramatic look which to me is the whole reason for owning it. I'd otherwise stick with Maldon for $8 a pound.

They do have some interesting salts I've never seen before, though, like the one from Utah.

Interesting site, Jenise! That's the first time place I've seen whole smoked Hungarian peppers rather than the version that have been ground into paprika.


Mike

With all the talk about salts, I had to order some. I now have Casina Rossa Truffle & Salt blend....awesome and Das Black Lava Finishing Salt from Hawaii.
Another site I visit had a thread about salts. Two foodies in Hawaii, one a caterer, dislike the black lava salt saying it tastes like rocks and they were hoping I would like mine when I got it. Well, I do.....it does not taste like rocks. Mine has a kick at the start of something I cannot describe (yet) then I taste the salt. The finish is a bit smokey. Here is a site that has recipes and information.
http://www.dasfoods.com

I just have to say that I ordered some more items from Das Foods and found their service to be outstanding. There was an error on their website and I could not place my order. I sent them an email, got a message back and finally a phone call. I was so pleased with the prompt service.

I bought some smoked black salt, Hawiian red salt and Caribbean blend (sea salt with special spices and peppers) this week. Will be experimenting this weekend. Will keep you posted.

An interesting development with the Black Lava Sea Salt. Today for lunch I sliced some garden toms and cukes. Sprinkled the black salt on and noticed the black charcoal powder got under my fresh manicured nails. I had a heck of a time getting that stuff off, even from my skin. It also does a number in your digestive tract, much like the beets do, only in black!
Tastes great though!

Karen - I have to wholeheartedly agree with your glowing report about Das Foods service - absolutely outstanding! Prompt & personalized - so refreshing. I wish they had more products so I could have an excuse to order more from them!