WISK Welcomes Halen Môn: Bringing the Taste of Pristine Welsh Seas to Dubai
WISK is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Halen Môn, a renowned Welsh producer of pure sea salt, further expanding our range of exceptional ingredients for Dubai's culinary scene. Founded by husband-and-wife team Alison and David Lea-Wilson on the beautiful Isle of Anglesey, Halen Môn (meaning "Anglesey Salt" in Welsh) is renowned for its unique flavour and commitment to artisanal production methods.
Alison and David, the Sea Zoo and the Discovery of Pure Water
Alison and her husband, David, co-founded Halen Môn (literally, Anglesey Salt) in 1997.
First, they set up The Sea Zoo, which ended up becoming Wales’ largest aquarium. That's where they noticed that the sea around the island was exceptionally clean, as the notoriously fussy seahorses at The Sea Zoo bred happily in it. Alison and David had a feeling that these briny waters had the potential to produce the exceptional sea salt. In 1997, they left a saucepan of seawater to boil on the Aga in their family kitchen and as the salt crystals started to form, they knew they’d struck culinary gold – the world’s finest flake sea salt was born.
The pure sea water, filtered naturally through sand and mussels, forms the basis for Halen Môn’s exceptional sea salt. Utilizing traditional methods passed down through generations, they hand-harvest the pristine waters of the Menai Strait, allowing the natural sunlight and wind to work their magic on the seawater. The resulting crystals are then gently washed and dried, preserving the salt's delicate mineral profile and capturing the essence of the Welsh coastline. Exquisite flaky Halen Môn flakes of salt that capture the essence of Anglesey’s coastal purity have garnered international acclaim, numerous Great Taste awards and praise from world-renowned chefs.
The one and only PDO Salt from Britain
Halen Môn Sea Salt’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed. In addition to The Queen’s Award for Sustainability, they have been awarded B Corp status after demonstrating the highest social and environmental standards. They hold the distinction of being the only British sea salt to have an EU Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), the same accreditation as Champagne and Parma ham. This prestigious status places them alongside other Welsh culinary gems like Welsh Lamb and Beef. Their dedication to tradition, innovation, and environmental responsibility sets them apart in the world of artisanal sea salt production.
Can the Salt be Sweet?
While table salt is the most common variety of cooking salt found in much of the world, we believe it doesn’t belong anywhere near the kitchen. Though cheap and easy to pour from a spout, it is often laden with anti-caking agents that can impart their own sour or bitter flavour to food. Rock salt – another popular choice – has a solid texture that we often find overpowering.
As the single most important ingredient in your kitchen, we’d suggest that it’s worth splashing out on sea salt. Halen Môn is hand-harvested, organic-approved sea salt made from Anglesey sea water and absolutely nothing else. Expect a delicate balance of minerals, depth of flavour, and no bitterness.
Today, Halen Môn’s sea salt is enjoyed around the world by chefs, food lovers and even Barack Obama. It has been served at the London 2012 Olympics, political summits and royal weddings and is a vital ingredient in Green & Blacks chocolate and Piper’s Crisps. Thousands of customers agree it is the best salt for cooking. Halen Môn’s sea salt can be found not only in UK’s best delicatessens, but also in over 22 countries across the globe, as well as on the tables of some of the world’s top restaurants like The Fat Duck.
Halen Môn’s sea salt has a unique balance of minerals, tastes pure and looks beautiful. It is stronger than many other salts so you need less of it, and lasts on hot food, retaining a satisfying crunch even on a freshly grilled steak. A good shelf life – 2 years for the flavours and 5 years for the pure salt, all sold in resealable, reusable packaging for chefs when desired. Halen Môn’s sea salt adds a point of difference in a world where people enjoy the best of everything.
Exceptional Range of Halen Môn’s sea salt
Pure White Sea Salt – The essence of simplicity, this pristine sea salt captures the essence of Anglesey’s coastal purity. Its delicate flakes dissolve effortlessly, enhancing the natural flavours of any dish.
Oak-Smoked Sea Salt – Infused with the rich aroma of oak, this salt adds depth and complexity to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, and even desserts. A touch of smokiness that transports diners to the heart of Anglesey’s woodlands.
Sea Salt with Organic Spices – A harmonious blend of sea salt and organic spices, this seasoning elevates every bite. From curries to salads, it’s a versatile companion for adventurous chefs.
Roasted Garlic Sea Salt – Garlic lovers rejoice! Halen Môn’s roasted garlic sea salt combines the robustness of garlic with the purity of sea salt. Perfect for marinades, dressings, and roasted vegetables.
Umami No. 2 Sea Salt – Unlock umami magic with this unique blend. Umami No. 2 enhances savoury dishes, adding depth and savouriness. A secret weapon for culinary creativity.
Chilli and Garlic Sea Salt – For those who crave a little heat, this fiery blend balances the zing of chilli with the earthiness of garlic. Ideal for spicing up seafood, stir-fries, and dips.
Celery Seed-Infused Sea Salt – A surprising twist awaits in this fusion of sea salt and celery seeds. The result? A seasoning that complements salads, soups, and even cocktails.
Oak-Smoked Water
Yes, you read that right! Halen Môn’s oak-smoked water is a revelation. When Heston Blumenthal asked Halen Môn if they’d have a stab at smoking water, after hundreds of trials they have refined and perfected a condiment that’s 100% natural and adds a savoury depth of flavour to an almost infinite number of foods and drinks, incredibly quickly. A true artisan product that renders smoking a whole finished product unnecessary. The essence of Anglesey’s coastal breeze captured in liquid form is an excellent way to enhance sauces, gravies, or as a base for seafood dishes.
Ed Smith, chef and food writer of Rocket & Squash, says "Halen Môn’s oak-smoked water has become as useful and legitimate an addition to my larder as the likes of Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, toasted sesame oil and fish sauce." No wonder it has been making waves for years now, even winning the ‘Best Ingredient’ from the World Food Innovation Awards back in 2018, and the next year – the Great Taste Award – the Oscars of the UK food industry!
Make your dishes special
The exceptional purity and provenance of Halen Môn’s sea salts will allow you to add an extra special touch to your dishes. With the addition of Halen Môn, WISK continues its dedication to bringing the world's finest ingredients to Dubai's culinary scene. Be impressed by the exceptional quality and taste of Halen Môn sea salts, allowing you to elevate your dishes and delight your customers.
