Types of Salt Boxes

• Salt boxes are often made of wood and can hold any type of salt, including sea salt and kosher salt. They are used to keep salt clean and dry, as well as add decor to the kitchen. The most common wood types used for making salt boxes are olive and maple. Most boxes are fairly small, storing about 5 oz. of salt and averaging about 3 inches in height and 3 1/2 inches in diameter. Some boxes have a swivel top while others have a removable lid.

Salt Box for Cooking

• While a decorative salt box can be a visual enhancement for the kitchen, it also has another function. A salt box can be a helpful tool for a professional chef or someone preparing a meal for themselves. Salt is a common ingredient in many dishes and can be added at various stages of the cooking process. Having quick and easy access to it can be very important.

Advantages of Using a Salt Box

• When a recipe calls for a teaspoon of salt, a salt box can help make adding salt neat and easy by allowing you to scoop the salt out rather than pouring the salt on the spoon. It also makes grabbing a pinch of salt more convenient. When the lid is securely fastened, a salt box can prevent spills and keep your salt clean. It is also a good way to keep your salt dry and fresh. The boxes are also small and can conveniently be stored away in the kitchen with other spices.

Disadvantages of Using a Salt Box

• While there are many advantages to using a salt box in your kitchen, there are a few disadvantages, as well. One of the most common problems is keeping the salt in the box from being contaminated by the other spices, juices and other things that may be on your fingers while cooking. When reaching for a pinch of salt, what you have on your finger tips already may touch not only the salt you are adding to your dish, but the salt around it that is left in the box. Another disadvantage is that there is no protection against spills. If the salt box is knocked over, a large amount of the salt can spill out as opposed to if a salt shaker were knocked over.