salt

Salt

Salt is a crystalline mineral composed primarily of sodium chloride, widely used as a seasoning and preservative in cooking. Known for its sharp, clean, and briny flavor, salt enhances the natural taste of ingredients and balances sweetness, bitterness, and acidity in dishes. It typically appears as fine granules, coarse crystals, or flakes, and can range in color from pure white to pink, gray, or even black, depending on its source and mineral content. As an essential pantry staple, salt is indispensable in both savory and sweet recipes, making it a cornerstone of global cuisines.

Common Uses

  • Sprinkle salt over vegetables, meats, or seafood before cooking to enhance their natural flavors and improve texture.
  • Use salt to season soups, stews, and sauces, balancing the overall taste and bringing out the depth of flavors.
  • Incorporate salt into baking recipes to contrast sweetness and improve the structure of doughs and batters.
  • Create brines with salt to tenderize and flavor proteins like chicken, pork, or fish before cooking.
  • Use finishing salts, such as flaky sea salt, to garnish dishes like salads, roasted vegetables, or desserts for added texture and flavor.
  • Preserve foods like pickles, cured meats, or fermented vegetables by using salt to inhibit bacterial growth and extend shelf life.

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

0.0kcal

Protein

0.0g

Carbs

0.0g

Sugars

0.0g

Healthy Fat

0.0g

Unhealthy Fat

0.0g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Health Benefits

  • Enhances flavor in dishes, making it a cornerstone of seasoning in cooking worldwide.
  • Provides essential sodium, which supports fluid balance and nerve function in the body.
  • Acts as a natural preservative, helping to extend the shelf life of foods like pickles and cured meats.
  • Can be used to improve the texture of baked goods by strengthening gluten structure.
  • Plays a role in fermentation processes, such as in making bread or sauerkraut.
  • Adds depth to sweet recipes by balancing and highlighting flavors.

Storage Tips

Store salt in a cool, dry place at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Use an airtight container to prevent clumping and contamination. If you live in a humid environment, adding a few grains of rice to the container can help absorb excess moisture and keep the salt free-flowing.

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