How to Salvage Too Salty Dishes

PHOTO BY RON LACH ON PEXELS

Ever taken a bite of something that made you reach for water faster than you could say “salt?” Too salty dishes can ruin a meal and leave you feeling parched.

Understanding how to identify and fix overly salty foods can transform your cooking experience and protect your taste buds. Let’s dive into why salt can become a problem and how to balance flavors for perfect dishes.

Dilute with Liquid

If your dish turns out too salty, adding liquid can help balance the flavors. Here are some options to consider:

• Water: The simplest choice. Just add a bit at a time and stir well.
• Broth: If you want to maintain flavor, use low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth.
• Cream or Milk: For cream-based dishes, this can tone down the saltiness nicely.

Check the fourth slide on this post for more ideas on adding milk:

Add Acid

When your dish tastes too salty, adding acid can help balance the flavors. Here are some common acidic ingredients you can try:

• Lemon Juice: A splash can brighten up the dish.
• Vinegar: Use balsamic, red wine, or apple cider vinegar for different flavors.
• Tomatoes: Fresh or canned tomatoes add acidity and depth.

Start with a small amount and taste as you go. Remember, the goal is to enhance, not overpower!

See the second slide of this Instagram post:

Incorporate Starchy Ingredients

Adding starchy ingredients can help balance salty dishes. They absorb excess salt and add texture to your meals.

Consider these options:

• Rice
• Potatoes
• Pasta

Watch this video for the use of potato to fix the dish:

You can also try grains like quinoa or couscous. They complement flavors well while softening saltiness.