Seasoning

Seasoning, such as an herb or spice, is used to magnify the natural flavor of a food to make it richer or more delicate.  When I was younger I viewed cooking as a means to an end, and the end being cleaning up!!  As I have journeyed through various culinary experiences, I have grown to appreciate the importance of cooking - it's value to nurture and provide energy to our bodies and souls.

Seasonings are often divided into the following groups:

1. Saline seasonings—Salt, spiced salt, saltpeter
2. Acid seasonings—Plain vinegar (sodium acetate), or same aromatized with tarragon; verjuice, lemon and orange juices
3. Hot seasonings—Peppercorns, ground or coarsely chopped pepper, or mignonette pepper; paprika, curry, cayenne, and mixed pepper spices
4. Saccharine seasonings—Sugar, honey

Most recipes call for the addition of salt.  The main use for salt in cooking is to draw out water from the food.  There are various types of salt:

• Table salt - mined from underground salt deposits
• Sea salt - harvested from evaporated seawater
• Kosher salt - larger crystals used in koshering or preserving process

In biblical times salt was harvested from the Dead Sea and was used as a seasoning, a preservative, a disinfectant, a component of ceremonial offerings, and as a unit of exchange.  The scriptures teach us to be the 'Salt' of the earth. Our lives should enhance and give meaning to the experience of life.  Like salt, we should draw out the pain and suffering others are facing to season their lives with love and compassion. 

I have been blessed in my life that whenever I was struggling with even the simplest of trial or worry, a person with salt was put in my path to draw out what I was in need of, and enhance my life.  All I had to do was be open to their 'seasoning'. 

"Have salt in yourselves, and be at peace with one another." Mark 9:50