How to Make Salt From Seawater

Making sea salt in your kitchen is easy, but it takes some patience.

Sea salt is formed naturally or harvested from coastal areas around the world. Making your own sea salt is an easy process and makes a unique gift. A few kitchen accessories and access to seawater is all you need.

Things You'll Need

• Large shallow roasting pan
• 2 gallons of clean fresh sea water
• Wooden spoon

Instructions

1. Place a large shallow roasting pan on the stove and fill with sea water to within 1 inch of top rim. Turn heat on high (use two burners if the pan will stretch over both).

2. Turn heat down to medium when water begins to boil. As water begins to evaporate, stir occasionally to help salt drop out of suspension.

3. Refill pan with sea water when the first batch has reduced by half. Continue to refill as the level drops until all the sea water is in the pan.

4. Turn heat down to low when most of the water has evaporated out. Stir frequently to spread the salt crystals out. When crystals begin to appear to be drying out, put pan in 275 degree F oven and continue to dry, stirring occasionally, until salt feels dry to the touch.

5. Store salt in a lidded glass container. To maintain optimal dryness, place a desiccant pouch on top of salt to wick away any remaining moisture during storage. Keep in a cool and dark location.

6. Use your salt like any other sea salt. If you want smaller grains, purchase an inexpensive grinder. Natural sea salt has less of a "salty" taste than iodized table salt, so you may need to use slightly more with your foods.

Tips & Warnings

• Add flavorings to your salt such as lemon peel, dried garlic or vanilla for a custom sea salt blend.

• Use only clean sea water. If you are unsure, have it tested by your local extension agent.

Resources

• Cooperative Extension System Offices