(NC) Any great chef will tell you that the secret to achieving restaurant-quality dishes at home is getting the seasoning just right. Here, the experts from Sifto, a Canadian company that's celebrating its 150th anniversary this year, share their tips for that perfect pinch of salt.

Salt brings out the best in food. Your body needs salt to function properly, which is why we often crave salty treats. In low doses, salt reduces bitterness but increases sweet, sour and savoury flavours — ideal for sweet dishes. In high doses, salt reduces sweetness and enhances savoury flavours.

Don't forget a taste test (or two). To get the appropriate amount, be sure to taste your cooking as you go along. Think of yourself as a salt sommelier, testing how salt enhances the flavour profile of your dish. Just make sure that you've been drinking enough water —if you're dehydrated, you'll add too much.

When in doubt, less is more. Remember that your guests can always add more salt if needed, but it's impossible to fix a dish when you've gone overboard. Season all along the cooking process, a dash every time you add something new to the pot or pan.

Keep your distance. The ideal height for seasoning with salt is about 10 or 12 inches above the food. This helps the granules spread more evenly and gives you a better sense of how much you're using.

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