Black salt (Hindi काला नमक kala namak or sanchal) is an unrefined mineral salt that is actually pinkish gray and has a strong sulfuric flavor. Black salt is mined in India and is used extensively in Indian cuisine as a condiment or added to chaats, chutneys, raitas and many other savory Indian snacks. Chaat masala, an Indian spice blend, is dependent upon black salt for its characteristic aroma and flavor. Chemically, black salt is sodium chloride, with iron, sulfurous compounds and trace minerals.
Black salt is considered a cooling spice in ayurvedic medicine and is used as a laxative and digestive aid. It is also believed to relieve intestinal gas and heartburn. It is sometimes used by people with high blood pressure or on low-salt diets because it is thought to be lower in sodium and purportedly does not increase sodium content in the blood.
Black salt is appreciated by vegans in dishes that mimic the taste of eggs. It is used, for example, to spice tofu to mimic an egg salad.
