Sakuraco Logo
snack box
お菓子の箱について
subscription
pricing
about us
私たちについて
subscribe
購入する
account menu button
Sakuraco Logoaccount menu button
snack box
お菓子の箱について
subscription
pricing
about us
私たちについて
subscribe
購入する
Top StoriesNewsFood & Drink
Food & Drink
Top Stories
News
Food & Drink
search

snow salt

Snow Salt from Okinawa: Why Is It the Best?

Linh Le

Linh Le

Share:

A bowl of snow salt with a scoop.

Snow salt, or yukishio(雪塩) in Japanese, is powdery, snow-like salt made from the underground seawater of Okinawa. If you’ve ever been to Okinawa, you may have seen yukishio displayed in souvenir shops or eaten snacks made with it. So, what is the difference between snow salt and ordinary salt? Let’s get to know about this particular Okinawa condiment! 

What is yukishio?

In Japanese, “yuki” means snow, and “shio” means salt, so basically, “yukishio” is a type of salt that has a smooth, white powdery appearance, just like snow. Not only its look but also what makes it so unique is its richness in minerals that are hard to find in other types of salt. There are over a dozen minerals in yukishio, including sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and iron. As a result, the Guinness Book of World Records listed yukishio as the “World’s Best Salt” in August 2000.

Where did yukishio come from?

Yukishio comes from Miyakojima, an island in the southern region of Okinawa Prefecture. It has an ideal underground environment to produce the finest snow salt. Miyako Island has long been famous for its beautiful beaches and clean ocean where coral grows.

A bird's eye view of Miyako Island.
Miyako Island is home to the special limestone that makes this salt. Image via Shutterstock

With many tiny cavities, Ryukyu limestone constructs this island, acting like a giant filter to remove all the impurities. Operators pump the purified underground seawater below Ryukyu Limestone and instantly evaporate it by a heated metal board to produce it. After they filter it multiple times, they’re able to extract the salt and then package it!

Looking for some traditional taste from Japan like yukishio? Check out Sakuraco! Sakuraco brings the best Japanese snacks, sweets, tableware, and more from local Japanese makers right to your door!

What is the difference between regular salt and snow salt?

In the general method, producers concentrate and extract seawater to obtain salt. This commonly known process involves boiling seawater for about two days, which separates salt from the bittern or “nigari.” In contrast, the production of snow salt involves a special method called instant evaporation, where seawater evaporates quickly, allowing the crystallization of “nigari” without separation.

A white, crystal condiment from Okinawa.
It’s readily available at more Japanese food stores. Image via Okkeno

The instant evaporation method is mainly attributed to the high content of sea ingredients in snow salt, as bittern, a seawater solution made from evaporated salt, is involved. Because of the high content of these elements, the sodium chloride content in snow salt is relatively low. Moreover, since it contains a lot of nigari compared to regular salt, some people may find it a little bitter, sweet, and sour in the aftertaste. However, as a seasoning, it is unique in that it deepens the richness of ingredients.

From the ocean to the table: The daily use of snow salt

Because snow salt is so acceptable, it quickly melts into any other ingredient. Not to mention, it’s best to use snow salt for making tempura and rice balls. Unlike other types of salt, snow salt has a relatively mild saltiness; it is best used to enhance the original flavor of the ingredients rather than to enjoy a strong salty taste. For onigiri (rice balls), yukishio makes it easier to enjoy the flavor of rice, while for tempura, snow salt helps deepen the flavor of the dishes.

A sea shell full of snow salt from Okinawa.
It has over a dozen minerals! Image via Shutterstock

Apart from that, it can also be used in baking and making desserts. Thanks to the moderate saltines, it pairs incredibly well with dairy products, creating a refreshing, sweet, and salty aftertaste. Enjoy the best original yukishio soft-serve ice cream at Yushikhio Museum on Miyako Island. Don’t miss the opportunity to try out yukishio soft-serve ice cream or salt chinsuko (Okinawan-style cookies) if you can visit Okinawa. 

What’s the difference between powdered vs. coarse sea salt?

Two types of snow salt can be used according to your needs. One is a silky powder type characterized by its ability to blend well with other ingredients. This type is recommended for seasoning meat or making desserts. Since it is in powder form, it is not as heavy as it appears, so to achieve the same saltiness as usual, use three times as much as it appears.

A bowl of snow salt.
Snow salt has a powdery appearance. Image via Shutterstock

On the other hand, there’s also the granulated type that is easier to use. You can use it like ordinary salt in everyday dishes such as simmered and stir-fried menus. Overall, Okinawa sea salt is a unique and delicious condiment that many people enjoy with sweet and savory dishes worldwide! Have you ever tasted dishes made with yukishio? Can you tell the difference in taste between yukishio and regular salt? Which one do you prefer? Let us know in the comments!

Enjoy new Japanese sweets, snacks & tea every month

Discover authentic flavors with Sakuraco

Enjoy new Japanese sweets, snacks & tea every month $32.50 USD

Get Sakuraco package

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Articles

A plate of fresh edamame.

How to Eat Edamame: A Guide to Soybeans!

If this is your first time enjoying this delicious snack, let’s explore how to eat edamame. Keep reading to learn more about this versatile and healthy snack!

November 18, 2024
A big scoop of genmaicha.

Genmaicha: Amazing Brown Rice Tea from Japan!

One of the most unique and popular teas in Japan is genmaicha. Let’s dive in and discover the exciting characteristics of this drink and how to enjoy it easily at home!

November 14, 2024
A plate of kaki no tane with buttered peanuts.

Kaki no Tane and More Types of Senbei

Senbei is a traditional rice cracker snack that has been loved by the people of Japan for generations. So, let’s look at some of the most popular types of senbei, starting with kaki no tane!

November 14, 2024
The Nakauraya staff standing outside their storefront.

Yuzu Senbei from Nakauraya: An Amazing Snack from Ishikawa!

Imagine biting into a crisp rice cracker that suddenly bursts with the bright, citrusy flavor of Japan’s beloved yuzu fruit. That’s the magic of Nakauraya’s yuzu senbei, a mouthwatering treat that captures the essence of Ishikawa Prefecture in every bite.

November 08, 2024
Footer background patternFooter background pattern
Sakuraco
Subscription & gifts
PricingUpcoming Month’s BoxPast Month’s Box
Today's Offer
Personal GiftCorporate Gift
Support & Information
FAQContact UsCompare to Bokksu

Be the first to know!

Join our newsletter and receive tasty news and deals

AnIchigo Logobrand.
Copyright © 2024 Sakuraco™. All Rights Reserved.

Accepted Payments

Visa payment availableMastercard payment availableAmerican Express payment availableDiscover payment availablePayPal payment available