Salt as Seasoning, Condiment and Contrast

Salt appears in the cookbook in three different roles: dissolved through a dish, concentrated in a condiment, and used as a contrast against sweet, sour, bitter, or pungent flavors.

Pickles show the concentrated role clearly. Carrot pickles and lime pickles use salt as part of preservation and flavor development, while chutneys and raitas use smaller amounts to sharpen other ingredients.

That means seasoning cannot be judged only by the salt already in the main dish. A salty pickle or condiment changes the balance of the whole plate even when served in a very small quantity.

Ingredients

• Salt
• A main dish
• Pickle or chutney
• Raita or salad
• Acidic or sweet elements for contrast

Method

Season the main dish conservatively if salty condiments will be served beside it. Taste the meal with the pickle, chutney, or raita included, then adjust only if the complete bite still needs more salt.