Welcome to The Salty Don
All about Salt and Pepper Mills
Not all Mills are equal
Mills vary in quality, that's why some cost $100 while others go for under $10. Buy according to your means, but pay attention to these points:
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Look for an adjustable grinding mechanism. This allows you to get the degree of coarse/fine grind that you desire.
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Check the kind of grinding mechanism. There are three kinds: nylon or plastic, metal and ceramic.
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Nylon or plastic are used in inexpensive salt mills. They have the strength to handle coarse salt, but cannot stand up to peppercorns or other herbs and spices.
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Metal is used for pepper. The metal itself may vary in quality, from stainless steel to cheap rust-prone alloys. Do not use a metal grinder with salt.
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Ceramic is the hardest of the three. It is suitable for salt and for herbs and spices. It can also be used for peppercorns, but I prefer a good quality mill designed specifically for pepper.
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Care and Feeding
Many products that you buy for use in a salt or pepper mill have additives that prevent caking. These same agents prevent the absorption of water by some herbs and spices. The Salty Don products contain NO such additives. This has some positives and some negatives.
Our products should be kept in a cool dry place. They also should be used; while they are visually appealing they are intended to add to the aromatic and gustatory enjoyment of food.
Other hints:
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When your mill is not in use, tighten the adjusting mechanism to prevent moisture getting in between uses.
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Try not to use your grinder directly over boiling liquid.
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When you complete a meal, turn your grinder upside down and give it a few turns. This will clear the grinding mechanism. Tighten the adjustment to prevent moisture penetration.
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If you encounter a problem with salt caking or other moisture absorption, take a small brush (a small paintbrush or toothbrush works well–a clean one of course!) or the tip of a knife to clear the grinding mechanism. Turn your grinder upside down and give it a few turns to clear the grinding mechanism. Tighten the adjustment to prevent moisture penetration. Check the product in the mill; if it has gone soft, replace.
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