Seasoning: Why Is It So Important?
When preparing a delicious meal – you’re likely to want to bring out the best in your meat! While the freshest meat from a local butcher in Etobicoke will taste fantastic on its own, seasoning is a must. But what does seasoning actually entail – and why do so many of us insist on it?
The Difference Between Seasoning and Flavoring
Let’s be clear – seasoning and flavoring are two different actions. Seasoning your food helps to improve the taste. Flavoring, meanwhile, actively changes it. Therefore, you may choose to season your meat or dish to make it more flavorsome. However, for a specific type of flavor or style of cooking, you may choose to flavor it directly.
That said, these terms are both interchangeable depending on the dish or the ingredient. However, there’s also a fundamental difference when adding seasoning and flavorings. To season a dish, you’d do so when your meat is thoroughly cooked and almost ready to serve.
When flavoring a dish, you’d normally add spices and herbs while cooking it. Seasoning typically revolves around using different salt and even citric acid from lemons. However, to flavor a dish, you’d normally use herbs or sauces. Spices, that said, can be used in either case.
Why is Seasoning Important in Cooking?
Seasoning is crucial as it helps to bring out the best in your food. That’s not just in meat, either! You can season peppers, tomatoes, beans – all kinds of produce – to help bring out the flavor. Generally, most chefs rely on good old salt and pepper to make a difference before serving up.
However, you can use various spices and powders to different effects. The best cuts of lamb or beef from a free-range meats butcher shop should already go down great. But what if you could create intriguing new flavors and dishes by adding a little extra spice?
Seasoning is essential because it really can make a difference in the final delivery of a dish. It’s also an excellent time for you to get creative and try different techniques! You never know what you might create.
The Essential Seasonings
Everyone’s spice racks are going to look a little bit different. Of course, having salt and pepper on standby is always a plus. But, what else should you be racking up within the kitchen?
Popular spices that can bring out the best in meat and vegetable dishes include chili, basil, paprika, and oregano. Oregano, in fact, is a popular staple for helping to bring out the best in Spaghetti Bolognese!
However, consider stocking up on peppercorns, garlic powder, ground ginger, and allspice – and get creating!
Conclusion
So – you’ve got your wholesale bulk meat, and you’re ready to cook. Don’t be shy around the spice rack! Try a few flavors and creative twists on your old favorites and see how you get on. Who knows – there’s a chance you might find a whole new way to cook!
