Salt

• Enhancing Flavor: Salt is universally used to bring out the natural flavors of food, adding depth and complexity to both sweet and savory dishes. It helps to balance sweetness and bitterness in recipes.
• Food Preservation: Salt's ability to inhibit microbial growth makes it an age-old preservative for meats, fish, and vegetables, extending their shelf life significantly. Salt-curing is an important process.
• Seasoning and Finishing: Different types of salt, such as sea salt flakes, are used as finishing salts to add a burst of flavor and textural contrast to dishes just before serving, enhancing the overall sensory experience. Sea salt crystals adds a nice crunch.
• Baking Applications: In baking, salt strengthens gluten in dough, controls yeast activity, and contributes to the crust's color and flavor. It is vital for bread, cakes, and other baked goods, improving its texture.
• Brining and Marinades: Salt is a key ingredient in brines and marinades, helping to tenderize meats and poultry while infusing them with flavor. It allows the meat to retain moisture during cooking, preventing dryness. It is a great meat tenderizer.
• Pickling and Fermentation: Salt is crucial in pickling and fermentation processes, creating an environment that inhibits undesirable bacteria and promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms, resulting in tangy and flavorful preserved foods.

• Supports electrolyte balance for proper hydration and nerve function.
• Aids in nutrient absorption, helping the body utilize essential vitamins and minerals.
• Assists in muscle function and contraction, preventing cramps.
• Helps maintain healthy blood pressure when consumed in moderation.
• Contributes to thyroid function as a source of iodine (in iodized salt).

Salt should be stored in a cool, dry place away from moisture. A pantry or cabinet is ideal. Keep it in an airtight container to prevent clumping, especially in humid environments. Salt does not expire, but humidity can affect its texture, so proper storage is essential for maintaining its quality.