Experience the exquisite taste and rich history of hand-harvested sea salt from the protected Isle of Noirmoutier, Brittany, France. With its ancient Celtic methods and untouched purity, this unrefined salt captures the essence of the sea, offering a mellow flavor and an array of trace minerals. Let’s delve into the story behind this culinary treasure.
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The Isle of Noirmoutier: A Salt Haven
Situated in the Bay of Biscay in the Vendee region, the Isle of Noirmoutier is famed for its exceptional sea salt. Two-thirds of the island is covered in sea marsh, creating the perfect environment for salt production. Its idyllic location, with a sunny and almost tropical climate, combined with gentle dry winds, facilitates the evaporation process. Designated as a national nature preserve, the Isle of Noirmoutier is environmentally protected to ensure the preservation of its natural heritage.
Hand Harvested with Celtic Tradition
Noirmoutier’s salt production stems from ancient Celtic methods that have stood the test of time. Dating back to medieval times, black-robed monks were the first to hand harvest salt on this captivating island. To this day, these traditional practices remain largely unchanged.
The process begins as Atlantic waters flow into sun-baked clay pools, rectangular and hard. Over two days, the sun and wind work their magic, evaporating the water and leaving behind large, gray crystals known as ‘sel gros.’ Seasoned salt harvesters, known as ‘sauniers,’ gather these crystals using long rakes. With swift strokes, the sauniers skillfully collect the crystals, carefully curating them into piles that grow several feet high throughout the harvest season. Once dried, the coarse salt is stone ground to a medium size, resulting in the creation of Eden Sea Salt.
Unmatched Purity and Taste
Noirmoutier islanders take immense pride in the purity and flavor of their salt, much like Bordeaux residents cherish their wine. Passed down through generations, the craft of salt harvesting has become a treasured tradition. Eden Sea Salt is not just any salt; it has been certified by ACTOA (L’Association de Controle Tiers Ouest Atlantique) as ‘Selection du Saunier.’ This esteemed organization ensures that the region of Noirmoutier maintains a pure and unpolluted environment, ideal for organic agriculture and adhering to the Standards of Salt.
In a market flooded with imitation sea salts, Eden unrefined sea salt stands as a beacon of authenticity. Many food processors opt for cheap alternatives, but the difference lies in the taste, nutrients, and overall experience. Eden Sea Salt is lower in sodium and higher in calcium compared to other salts, resulting in a smooth and savory flavor profile. With trace elements that mirror the sea itself and no unnecessary processing, this salt embodies nature’s perfection. It is packed in glass containers to preserve its pristine quality, shielding it from moisture absorption.
Embrace the Flavors of Eden
Indulging in Eden French Celtic Sea Salt means embracing a clean, smooth, and rich culinary experience. This supreme value is perfect for all your cooking and baking needs, and it also serves as an ideal table salt. To ensure its longevity, add a few grains of rice to your salt shakers to absorb any excess moisture. It’s important to note that this salt does not supply iodide, a necessary nutrient.
To embark on a gustatory adventure unlike any other, let Ambassadeur Hotel introduce you to the captivating world of Eden Sea Salt. Embodied in every grain lies centuries of tradition and the essence of the sea. Elevate your culinary creations with this remarkable treasure from the Isle of Noirmoutier.
