Himalayan Salt Block Cooking at the Mary C. O'Keefe

 What is Himalayan Salt Block Cooking?  That is what I said, when I received an invitation to view a demonstration  at The Cafe at the Mary C. O'Keefe Cultural Center www.themaryc.org. Before I continue I must give you a little background on this wonderful Ocean Springs gem.  As a former public school building it has been transformed into a lively arts center for everyone.  You can take a pottery, painting, or music class.  You can attend live musical or theatrical performances.  My favorite part of the Mary C. as it is fondly called, is The Cafe.

The Cafe is used for cooking classes and various public and private events.  It is outfitted with Viking appliances and decorated with local art work that is for sale. 

Here they are.......giant blocks of Himalayan salt, placed on top of a gas stove.  The idea is that the salt imparts flavor to whatever you are cooking.  A grill or electric stove can also be used, but with the electric stove it requires a device to elevate it slightly above the electric coil. The blocks are gradually heated until they are sizzling hot!

What can be cooked on the salt blocks?  Chef J from the Island View Casino showed us a number of different tasty items cold and hot, appetizer to dessert!

A delicious Caprese salad was assembled on a cold salt block.  Tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, fresh basil and olive oil were delicately flavored with a delicate salty taste.

Watermelon and Salt?  Why, of course........watermelon topped with goat cheese, pineapple salsa and micro greens.........A refreshing summery taste...

The main course........shrimp, chicken, flank steak, portabello mushrooms...............no need to add salt....

Ingredients for dessert......rum, bananas, brown sugar, oranges........SURPRISE!!!

Bananas Foster on Himalayan Salt Blocks!!!!! What a great end to an interesting and novel way to prepare a meal!!!  Want more information about Himalayan Salt Blocks?....try the following websites, www.saltrox.com
www.atthemeadow.com,  www.himalasalt.com,  www.saltnews.com.

Want to learn more about The Mary C?.................stop by the Center at 1600 Government Street, Ocean Springs.....or check out their website for a complete listing of upcoming classes and activities.....