Elevate Meals with Red Wine Salt: A Simple Recipe

Red wine salt offers a sophisticated twist to a variety of dishes, transforming simple meals into flavorful experiences. This versatile seasoning, easily made at home, pairs beautifully with meats, vegetables, and cheeses.

Making Red Wine Salt

The creation of red wine salt is a tactile process, relying on visual assessment and feel rather than precise measurements. Start by reducing 150ml of Merlot in a saucepan over medium-low heat for 20-30 minutes, creating a slightly thicker syrup. Allow the syrup to cool slightly before gently stirring in 115g of sea salt crystals until evenly coated, achieving a wet sand consistency. Transfer the mixture to a baking tray and dry it in a preheated oven at 150°C fan/340°F/gas mark 31⁄2 for 25-30 minutes, or overnight in a dehydrator at 50°C/122°F.

Recipe Details

Yields: Approximately 150g (5 1/2 oz)

Ingredients: 150ml/1⁄4 pint Merlot, 115g/4oz sea salt crystals

Instructions: Reduce the wine as described above. Combine the cooled wine syrup with the salt crystals, ensuring even coating. Dry the mixture thoroughly – either in the oven or using a dehydrator – before storing in an airtight container for up to 12 months.

Serving Suggestions

Red wine salt complements a range of dishes, including sliced bresaola, cooked beef short rib, chorizo, lamb chops, dirty onions, or rosemary-roasted potatoes. Consider experimenting with variations like coffee salt or elderflower cordial salt.

Dirty Onions with Red Wine Salt (Serves 4)

Ingredients: 8 red onions, 8 tbsp unsalted butter, 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley