What are two reasons to add salt cooking food?

Here are two reasons to add salt when cooking food:

1. Enhances Flavor: Salt is a fundamental flavor enhancer. It brings out the natural flavors of ingredients, making them more delicious and enjoyable. This is why salt is considered a crucial part of most cuisines around the world.

2. Improves Texture: Salt can influence the texture of food in various ways:

* Tenderizes Meat: Salt helps break down proteins in meat, leading to a more tender and flavorful outcome.

* Enhances Dough Elasticity: In baking, salt strengthens gluten in dough, giving it a more elastic texture and helping it rise better.

* Improves Vegetable Crispness: When cooking vegetables, salt can help them retain their crispness and prevent them from becoming mushy.