Feature Article

#IFoundIt: This Salt in a Clay Egg Is One of the Rarest Salts in the World—And You Can Find it in Bohol

It’s called Asin Tibuok or dinosaur egg salt

By: Maria Lona Iway | February 02, 2024
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asin tibuok

Discover the world's rarest salt, only in Bohol, encased in a unique clay egg.

Image: Mine Marketplace Facebook page (L); Pexels (R)

Nestled in the heart of Bohol, Philippines, lies a culinary treasure unlike any other: Asin Tibuok. Whispered of as "dinosaur egg salt" and hailed as "black gold," this artisanal salt transcends mere seasoning, offering a journey into Bohol's rich history, resilience, and vibrant flavors.

Beyond sodium chloride, Asin Tibuok is a story woven with tradition. Imagine generations of salt makers, the salt makers or asinderos, diligently passing down their knowledge through centuries. They harness the power of nature, crafting this unique salt from the essence of the earth and the embrace of the sea.

Read on to discover the awe-inspiring rarity of this one-of-a-kind Philippine salt, nestled in a clay egg waiting to be found in the beautiful region of Bohol!


Its production is an intricate dance of time and skill.



asin tibuok small clay pots

Claypot molds

Image: Writer

The abundance of coconut trees and proximity to seawater in Bohol provided the perfect ingredients for the unique Asin Tibuok production process. Over generations, the technique would have been refined and perfected through trial and error. The specific proportions of seawater and coconut husks, the optimal burning conditions for the ash, and the filtering timing would have been established to achieve the desired flavor and texture.


asin tibuok native tool

Liquid is placed in the mold under the fire to yield salt.

Image: Writer

Its production is an intricate dance of time and skill. Coconut husks bathe in the ocean's embrace, absorbing its salty whispers. Transformed into ash, they become the filter for seawater, yielding a brine rich in minerals and secrets. This precious liquid then dances with fire, slowly evaporating in clay pots until it yields the iconic "unbroken" salt dome, a testament to the asinderos' mastery. It takes three months or so to produce 100 pieces.

Mastering Asin Tibuok reflects expertise, resilience, and a deep environmental connection. It serves as a tangible link to ancestral wisdom and a reminder of the resourcefulness of the Boholano people.


Beyond the table, a journey into culture



asin tibuok

Asin tibuok in clay pots

Image: Writer

While its history, production process, and cultural significance are well-documented and understood, the mystery lies in its intriguing aura and perceived mystique, which has yet to be fully defined in pinpointing the exact moment of its birth.

This dates back to its Pre-colonial roots, where it has been estimated to have been produced before Spanish colonization, possibly as early as the 15th century. These were used for barter and trade, with asinderos exchanging Asin Tibuok for essentials such as rice.

The unique approach passed down through generations, contributes to the salt's unique flavor profile and mystique. The limited availability and reliance on traditional know-how contribute to its perceived exclusivity and intrigue.

Therefore, while Asin Tibuok doesn't hold secrets in the traditional sense, its rich history, unique production, cultural significance, and ongoing preservation efforts certainly lend it an air of fascination and mystique. It's a story of tradition, resilience, and a unique culinary treasure, making it a captivating element of Boholano heritage.

Asin Tibuok is more than just a seasoning; it's a story in salt crystals. It is a testament to generations of knowledge, community, and a deep connection to Bohol's land and people. It offers a window into the island's spirit, reminding us of the value of cultural heritage, resourcefulness, and the enduring power of tradition.


Where to get it



asin tibuok site

Asin Tibuok site at Alburquerque

Image: Writer

As of this time, just one family in the province is currently trying to revive the industry. Unravel its secrets at Tan-Inong's Asin Tibuok Manufacturing Plant, where generations of asinderos have breathed life into this culinary gem. The plant is located in Alburquerque, 17 kilometers from Tagbilaran City. Or, seek it out in local markets and online shops, where it may hide amongst more common treasures.

The precious dinosaur egg is priced online by The Fermentary for PhP9,500. However, you can get it at PhP400 to PhP700 in the local market and online shops. It is priced similarly, if not cheaper, than some of the most expensive salts worldwide.


Ditch the dull monotony of table salt and embark on a culinary adventure. Seek out the handcrafted treasures of the artisanal world, and let your senses be led astray by the symphony of flavors, textures, and stories they hold. With each bite, discover a world beyond sodium, where Philippine salt is not just a seasoning but an experience.


Visit Yoorekka Magazine for more unique finds and spots in Bohol!


The prices may change without prior notice.


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About Maria Lona Iway
From shaping minds to kneading dough, her journey has blossomed with each passing season. A lover of soil, stitch, and spice, she now navigates unchartered paths and uncovers hidden flavors hand-in-hand with her partner for more than 30 years and surrounded by the love of their three daughters.
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Disclaimer: All articles in the Consumers Magazine of Yoorekka are for general information and entertainment purposes only. Although careful research has been made in writing them, Yoorekka does not make any warranty about the completeness and accuracy of all information presented in our articles. Our content is not intended to be used in place of legal, medical, or any professional advice.
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