What is seasoned salt?

Seasoned Salt

Seasoned salt is a blend of table salt with herbs, spices, and other flavorings. It's a convenient way to add a complex flavor profile to dishes with a single ingredient.

Key Components:

• Base Salt: Typically, table salt forms the foundation.
• Spices: Common spices include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, celery seed, and sometimes chili powder. The specific blend varies greatly by brand and recipe.
• Herbs: Parsley, thyme, and oregano may be included to add herbaceous notes.
• Other Flavorings: Sugar (or dextrose), turmeric, and MSG (monosodium glutamate) are sometimes added to enhance sweetness, color, and umami.
• Anti-caking agents: To prevent clumping.

Uses:

Seasoned salt is incredibly versatile and can be used on a wide range of foods. It's popular for:

• Seasoning meats, poultry, and fish
• Flavoring vegetables, especially potatoes, corn on the cob and green beans
• Adding zest to popcorn, fries, and snack foods
• Enhancing egg dishes like omelets and scrambled eggs.
• A component in dry rubs.

Considerations:

• Sodium Content: Be mindful of the sodium content, as seasoned salt can be high in sodium.
• Homemade vs. Store-Bought: You can easily make your own seasoned salt to control the ingredients and flavor profile. Store-bought blends vary significantly in terms of ingredients and saltiness.
• MSG: Some individuals are sensitive to MSG, so check the ingredient list if this is a concern.
• Variations: Different regional and brand variations exist. For example, some seasoned salts might have a smoky flavor, while others might be more savory or spicy.