Kosher salt is a type of coarse-grained salt that is used in cooking, especially in the preparation of meats. It is called kosher salt because it is used in the koshering process, during which it is applied to the surface of meats to remove blood and other impurities. One of the main characteristics of kosher salt is its larger crystal size compared to table salt. This makes it easier to pinch with your fingers which is useful when seasoning food by eye. The coarser texture of kosher salt also makes it less prone to dissolving quickly which makes it ideal for seasoning the exterior of meats and foods that are cooked over a long period of time. It can also be used as a finishing salt: sprinkle it over the surface of finished dishes to add a burst of flavor.