Better Salt Storage: Try a Salt Pig

My mother gave me a salt pig for Christmas. At first I thought it was a silly, unnecessary kitchen gadget, but after giving it a try, I don’t see how I lived without one for so long! It’s such a great storage container for my artisanal salts.

Salt pigs are ceramic hooded vessels with wide mouths and are intended for storing, well, salt. The salt stays fresh in the vessel, and the hood keeps dirt and moisture out of the salt. The wide mouth is especially convenient; I keep my salt pig next to the stove and when I just need a pinch, I can reach my hand in and grab what I need. Measuring spoons fit easily in the opening. No more shaking or opening a container. And no, the salt doesn’t cake.

There are many different styles of salt pigs. Mine is a classic design in white glazed ceramic with a knob on top for easy carrying; it came from Williams Sonoma.

Some salt pigs to choose from:
• Emile Henry – sleek style, various colors
• Nigella Lawson – a modern style in the shape of an egg in a pretty blue color!
• Le Creuset – classic style with top knob

Related:
Wooden Salt Box

How Should I Use This Pink Japanese Rock Salt?

Ingredient Spotlight: Fleur de Sel

(Image: Kathryn Hill)