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## 16. **Revive Stale Bread**
If your bread has gone stale, salt can help revive it. Sprinkle a little water over the bread, then wrap it in aluminum foil with a pinch of salt and place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 to 15 minutes. The steam and salt will help restore the texture of the bread, making it taste freshly baked again.
## 17. **Clean Cutting Boards**
Salt is great for cleaning and deodorizing cutting boards, especially wooden ones. Sprinkle coarse salt onto the board, then rub it in with half a lemon. The acid from the lemon combined with the abrasiveness of the salt will lift food residues and remove odors. This is a natural and effective way to keep your cutting boards fresh and clean.
## 18. **Create a Crispy Crust on Baked Goods**
When making baked goods like pretzels, bread, or pizza dough, a sprinkle of salt on top creates a delicious, crispy crust. This simple addition enhances the flavor and texture of the finished product, making it even more irresistible.
## 19. **Boost the Flavor of Vegetables**
Roasting vegetables with a sprinkle of salt not only enhances their flavor but also helps to draw out their natural sweetness. Salt draws moisture from the vegetables, concentrating their flavors and creating a caramelized, crispy texture. It’s an easy way to make roasted veggies even more delicious.
## 20. **Prevent Ice Cream from Freezing Too Hard**
Salt can help improve the texture of homemade ice cream. If you’re making ice cream without an ice cream machine, add a pinch of salt to the mixture before freezing it. The salt helps prevent large ice crystals from forming, resulting in a creamier texture and smoother consistency.
## 21. **Clean the Inside of Your Oven**
If your oven has grease or food splatters on the inside, salt can help remove the mess. Mix salt with a little water to form a paste, then apply it to the affected areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub with a sponge or cloth. The salt helps lift grime and grease without damaging your oven’s surface.
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## Conclusion
Salt is more than just a seasoning; it’s an incredibly versatile and practical ingredient in the kitchen. From enhancing the flavors of your food to acting as a cleaning agent, salt can make your cooking and kitchen tasks easier and more efficient. With these 21 surprising uses, you now have a wealth of ways to incorporate salt into your kitchen routine.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just someone who enjoys cooking at home, these tips will help you maximize the potential of salt and elevate your culinary experience. So, the next time you’re in the kitchen, remember that salt is more than just a flavor enhancer—it’s a powerful tool that can help you with everything from
food prep to cleaning!