Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Salt

I am sure you have heard the recent news about salt in our diet. We all know that we need to cut back and that as a nation USA eats way too much salt.  But do you know where most of the salt is in your diet? If you eat a lot of prepared food you get a lot of salt that is not needed. Just take a look at any snack. They are very high in sodium. If you cook at home you can control what you eat and how much sodium you add.

Some things that help flavor but do not add salt -

Lemon - juice and zest  These can really perk up the flavor.  So will orange by the way
Try using more aromatics ( Onion, Garlic, Celery and carrots) in your food.  You will find that these add a lot of flavor and do need a lot of salt.
Read the labels of food.  Tomato paste is not all the same. Nor is Beef or Chicken stock and/or bases for soup. Use ones that have less sodium.
Use a Dry Vermouth or wine to add flavor. Let it reduce to concentrate the flavor. DO NOT USE COOKING WINE!! It has a TON of salt in it.  Use one that you would drink with the meal.

I know many people are saying "But it won't taste the same!!" it may not be what you are used to but it can taste better than you think.  Learn how to cook without adding a ton of salt.  You will be surprised how good food can be without a lot of salt