What is seasoned salt and how is it different from plain salt?

Question

Learn what makes seasoned salt unique and when to use it.

Answer 1

Seasoned salt is a blend of salt and various spices, herbs, and flavor enhancers, while plain salt is pure sodium chloride. Seasoned salt offers a more complex and flavorful taste profile compared to the single, salty taste of plain salt.

Detailed Explanation:

Plain salt, typically table salt or sea salt, consists almost entirely of sodium chloride (NaCl). It primarily provides a salty taste and is used for seasoning and preserving food.

Seasoned salt, on the other hand, is a mixture of salt and other ingredients. Common additions include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, sugar, herbs (like thyme or oregano), and spices (like pepper or celery seed). Some brands may also include flavor enhancers like monosodium glutamate (MSG). The specific blend of ingredients varies depending on the brand and intended use. This combination creates a more complex and nuanced flavor than plain salt alone. Seasoned salt can add depth and aroma to dishes, making it a convenient way to enhance the overall taste.

Pro Tip:

When substituting seasoned salt for plain salt in a recipe, start with a smaller amount than the recipe calls for and taste as you go. Seasoned salt can be saltier than plain salt due to the added ingredients, and you want to avoid over-seasoning your dish.