Hawaiian Red Alae Salt is from the island of Kauai in Hawaii.
To harvest it, salt water is evaporated in rock pools whose rock contains iron oxide (FeO2), resulting in large crystals of salt that have a russet or burnt-siena colour to them.
These days, to meet the demand, clay with iron oxide in it is often just mixed into the salt to give the coloration. Some people feel, however, that this gives the salt a bit too much of a harsh iron taste.
The salt started becoming popular with foodies in the early 2000s.
Cooking Tips
Use as a finishing salt.
Language Notes
Also spelt “Alaea Salt.”
Natives call it “Alae Pa’akai.”