What is the common use of salt in cooking?

The common use of salt in cooking is to enhance flavor. This occurs because salt has the unique ability to heighten the natural flavors of food, making dishes taste more vibrant and complete. When added to a dish, salt can suppress bitterness and balance sweetness, allowing other flavors to emerge more clearly. By doing this, it elevates the overall taste experience of the meal.

Salt also plays a crucial role in seasoning at different stages of cooking, allowing chefs to control the flavor of their dishes precisely. It's important to note that while some might think of salt as being related to sweetness or textural elements like thickening, its primary and most recognized function in the kitchen is truly in flavor enhancement. Thus, it is an essential ingredient in a wide range of culinary applications, from simple seasoning to brining and preserving foods.