How to use different salts in cooking
Salt is regarded as one of the most common ingredients used in cooking. Not only will you find it in savoury food dishes but chefs and home cooks have even experimented with different salts in sweet dishes.
However, there are a number of different salts that you can use, and each will offer something different to your cooking, the ingredients, and the overall dish. So here are some of the different salts that you can use and some of the benefits and uses in cooking.
Why Salt Matters
Salt is one of the most important ingredients in cooking. But why is it such a big deal? First, it makes food taste good. Salt brings out the natural flavours of ingredients, transforming meats, vegetables, and even desserts. Imagine fries without salt—pretty sad, right?
Salt also plays a role in texture. It can tenderise meat, help dough rise, and even keep veggies crunchy. In baking, a pinch of salt can balance the sweetness in cakes and cookies.
Different types of salts have unique textures and flavours. Some are great for adding a salty crunch, while others dissolve quickly for a smooth taste. Knowing which salt to use can help you achieve the perfect balance in your dish.
Table salt
This is one of those ingredients that we will all be familiar with. The salt that you display on your table to season your food, or used during the cooking process to add a little extra seasoning to the dish. It has a fine coarse crystal size.
Many people love using table salt to add a depth of flavour to their already cooked dishes and also during the cooking process. It is a simple way to intensify other ingredients you are cooking with.
Pink Himalayan Salt
Pink Himalayan Salt is one of the purest ones that you can get. It contains an astonishing 84 minerals that can be found in the human body. If you are a health-conscious person then this will be one of the options of salt that you would prefer to add to your cooking for seasoning purposes.
There are traces of iron ore and ivory throughout the salt rocks. It has a real bold flavour which many people enjoy throughout their cooking. It is mined in Pakistan and has become a common ingredient within cooking. It can be used on the table as a seasoning, in cooking, or you can use it to cure fish and meat as well.
Kosher salt
This is used primarily in Jewish cooking, Kosher salt follows the food guidelines in the Torah. However, nowadays it is commonly used in a variety of different cuisines as it is versatile.
It has a large, coarse consistency, which chefs favour as it can be evenly distributed during the cooking process. Just like table salt, this is a great option to use at the table as well as seasoning foods during the cooking process. It can also be a good option for curing meats and fish.
Sea salt
This is salt that is gathered from evaporated seawater. It has a really distinct and stone flavour that many like to use either during cooking or as a great way to cure meats and fish.
It also retains some of the minerals and vitamins you would only find in the sea, which gives the sea salt an extra edge. Some would argue that sea salt gives a bigger burst of flavour.
Curing salt
These are specifically for curing meat, fish, and vegetables. The curing salt is designed to remove toxins from these things and help intensify the cooking during the cooking process.
Flaky Salt
Flaky salt, like Maldon salt, is known for its light, crispy flakes. It’s often used as a finishing salt because it adds a delightful texture and burst of flavour without overpowering the dish.
Sprinkle flaky salt on top of chocolate chip cookies or caramel desserts. The contrast between sweet and salty is divine! It’s also perfect for adding a touch of luxury to a simple salad or soup.
Since flaky salt is more expensive, use it sparingly. Save it for dishes where its texture can shine, and you’ll impress your friends and family with your culinary skills.
Smoked Salt
Smoked salt is exactly what it sounds like—salt that’s been smoked over a fire. It carries a rich, smoky aroma that can make any dish taste like it’s fresh off the grill.
Use smoked salt to add a smoky flavour to meats, fish, and veggies. It’s perfect for barbecue rubs or even sprinkled over popcorn for a unique snack.
If you don’t have a smoker at home, smoked salt is a fantastic way to add that delicious grilled flavour to your dishes without any fuss.
Truffle Salt
Truffle salt is infused with pieces of truffle, a type of mushroom known for its earthy, umami flavour. It’s a luxurious addition to any dish and can elevate simple ingredients into gourmet creations.
Use truffle salt sparingly. A little goes a long way, thanks to its strong aroma and flavour. Sprinkle it on scrambled eggs, pasta, or fries for a touch of indulgence.
Truffle salt is more expensive than other salts, but it’s worth it for special occasions or when you want to impress your dinner guests.
Celery Salt
Celery salt is a blend of salt and ground celery seed. It adds a unique, savoury flavour to dishes and is often used in spice mixes and cocktails.
Use celery salt in soups, stews, and potato salads. It’s also a key ingredient in classic dishes like Bloody Mary cocktails and Chicago-style hot dogs.
Because celery salt has a strong flavour, start with a small amount and adjust to taste. It can be a fantastic way to add depth to your cooking without using too many ingredients.
Garlic Salt
Garlic salt is a mix of salt and garlic powder. It’s a convenient way to add garlic flavour to dishes without chopping fresh garlic.
Use garlic salt in marinades, rubs, and roasted veggies. It’s also great for seasoning popcorn or making garlic bread.
Because garlic salt contains both salt and garlic, be mindful of how much you use. It can quickly become overpowering, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Herb Salt
Herb salt is a blend of salt and dried herbs. It’s a versatile seasoning that adds a burst of flavour to dishes without needing to chop fresh herbs.
Use herb salt on roasted meats, veggies, or grilled fish. It’s also fantastic for seasoning soups and stews.
Since herb salt contains multiple flavours, it can be a one-stop solution for seasoning. Keep some in your pantry for those times when you want to add a touch of green goodness to your meals.
Hopefully, this has made you more aware of the different salts that you can use in your cooking.
