What is Maras Salt? Origin, Price and Benefits

Imagine an ancient ingredient, used since Inca times, that not only adds flavor to your meals, but also has beneficial health properties. Intrigued? Let me introduce you to Maras Salt, a unique and natural product. In this article, you will discover what Maras salt is, where it comes from, its price, the benefits of pink Maras salt, and whether it contains iodine and sodium. Read on to learn more!

What is Maras Salt?

Maras salt is a mineral salt harvested in the Salineras de Maras, a group of approximately 4200 salt wells located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in Peru. This salt has been extracted in a traditional way since ancient times and is characterized by its pink color and high mineral content.

Origin and Extraction Process

The salt mines of Maras

The Maras salt mines are wells built into the side of a mountain, fed by a subway spring rich in salt. The salt water is distributed in the wells, where it evaporates thanks to the sun, leaving salt crystals that are then collected manually.

Ancestral History

This salt has been extracted and used since the time of the Incas. The harvesting methods have remained practically unchanged for 600 years, passing from generation to generation, which makes the Maras Salt not only a product, but also a cultural heritage.

Benefits of Maras Pink Salt

• > Nutritional Properties: Maras Salt is known for its mineral content, such as calcium, iron, magnesium and zinc, which makes it a healthy choice over common refined salt.
• > Aromatherapy properties: It also has healing and anti-inflammatory properties. For example, it is suggested to perform baths with water and salt in the affected areas of the body, such as wounds and joints with rheumatic pain.
• > Health Benefits: It is said that Maras Salt can help regulate electrolyte balance in the body, improve digestion and promote healthy skin. In addition, thanks to its lower sodium concentration compared to sea salt, it is a highly recommended choice for people suffering from hypertension. However, as with any salt, it should be consumed in moderation.
• > Use in Cooking: This salt has a mild and less salty flavor than table salt, which allows it to enhance the natural flavor of foods without overloading them. It is ideal for seasoning salads, meats and gourmet dishes.

Different Types of Maras Salt and Their Uses in the Kitchen

Maras Salt comes in various forms, each suitable for different types of culinary preparations:

• > Coarse Grained Maras Salt: Perfect for use on grills, roasts and salads. Its robust texture adds a satisfying crunch to dishes.
• > Fine Grain Maras Salt: Ideal for everyday use in the kitchen. Its finer texture allows for even distribution and perfect seasoning.
• > Maras Salt with Spices: Excellent for seasoning pork, chicken, fish and vegetables. It is ideal for grilled or baked preparations, adding extra flavor with its spice blends.
• > Citrus Maras Salt: Perfect for grilled or baked fish and seafood. It can also be used on pork meats for a special citrus touch.
• > Smoked Maras Salt: Ideal for grilled or baked meats, offering a deep smoky flavor that enhances any dish.

Each type of Maras Salt has its specific application, making this versatile product an excellent addition to any kitchen.

Frequently Asked Questions about Maras Salt

Does Maras salt have iodine and sodium?
Maras salt has no added iodine. However, it does contain natural traces of this mineral, although in smaller quantities. Maras salt, like all natural salts, contains sodium. However, due to its high concentration of other minerals, it can be used in smaller quantities to obtain the same seasoning effect, thus reducing the total sodium intake.

What is the color of Maras salt?
Maras salt has a very faint pink color, which is due to the minerals present in it, such as magnesium, potassium and calcium.

How do you know if the pink salt is authentic?
The quickest way to identify authentic Maras salt is by its mild flavor, which enhances the taste of food. Another distinctive sign is its characteristic pale pink color.

How is salt formed?
The spring water is distributed evenly through a system of channels. The pools are filled to a height of approximately 5 cm and left to dry. It is in this process that the salt crystals are formed. Each well can produce between 150 and 200 kilos of salt.

What is the price of Maras Salt?
The price of Maras salt can vary according to the place of purchase and presentation. In general, a 500 gram package can cost between 10 and 20 dollars. Its price reflects both its unique quality and the artisanal harvesting process.

Maras salt is more than just a condiment; it is a link to history and nature. Coming from the majestic Maras salt mines in Peru, this salt not only brings a unique flavor to your meals, but also offers nutritional benefits. Now that you know its origin, price, benefits and mineral content, you are ready to incorporate this ancestral treasure in your kitchen and enjoy its multiple advantages.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit the Sacred Valley of the Incas, don’t forget to make a stop at the Maras Salt Mine to see firsthand how this wonderful salt is harvested. Your palate and your health will thank you!