Salt, Fat, Acid, Heat: Mastering the Elements breaks down cooking into four essential elements: salt, fat, acid, and heat.
1. Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of food by bringing out its natural flavors. Nosrat explains the importance of when and how to use salt effectively throughout the cooking process (seasoning, brining, curing, etc.).
2. Fat: Fat adds richness and carries flavor. It helps in creating texture and balances dishes. Different fats, like olive oil, butter, and animal fats, are used in various cuisines to achieve depth in flavor.
3. Acid: Acid brightens food and balances richness. It provides contrast and lifts flavors. Ingredients like vinegar, citrus, and tomatoes are highlighted for their role in balancing dishes.
4. Heat: Heat dictates texture and doneness. It’s about understanding how to control temperature to achieve desired results, whether it’s a crispy crust or a tender interiors.