- Is fleur de sel the same as regular sea salt?
- No. Fleur de sel is the delicate top layer skimmed from the salt marsh and is used as a finishing salt. Regular sea salt is harvested from the bulk brine and is coarser and cheaper.
- Can I cook with it?
- You can, but it is a waste. The thin crystals dissolve into cooked dishes and you lose the crunch. Use fine salt for cooking and save this for the table.
- Why is it moist?
- Fleur de sel retains some brine, which is what gives it its damp, clumping texture. That moisture helps it cling to food. Keep it in a sealed container away from steam.
- Does it contain additives?
- No. It is unrefined and free of anti-caking agents, which is one reason it clumps. Expect the crystals to stick together rather than pour freely.
- How should I store it?
- Keep it in an airtight jar in a dry cupboard, away from the stove. A small pinch bowl at the table keeps the main pack from picking up moisture.
- Where is the Fleur de Sel French Sea Salt cheapest?
- At monpanierlatinuk.com, for $8.40, 58% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.
- Where can I buy the Fleur de Sel French Sea Salt?
- 6 stores we checked sell it, including monpanierlatinuk.com, kosher-goumet, Pickandget, Chocosphere, eBay.