Tips for handling if the dish is too salty

Typically, when a dish ends up too salty, home cooks immediately add water to dilute the saltiness. However, there are several alternative methods to fix this problem. Here are some techniques you can try to reduce the saltiness of your dishes:

1.  Using Vinegar or Fresh Lemon Juice

Simply use a small amount of rice vinegar or fresh lemon juice to neutralize the saltiness.
Note: This method should not be used with dairy-based dishes because the acid in the vinegar or lemon juice can cause milk to curdle, altering the texture and taste of the dish.

2.  Using Egg Whites

For soups and broths, you can use egg whites (from chicken or duck eggs) to reduce saltiness.

• Crack the eggs into a bowl and separate the egg whites (leave them whole, without beating).
• Pour the egg whites directly into the pot.
• Allow the liquid to boil for about 5 minutes, then remove the egg whites.
  The egg whites will absorb some of the excess salt. Adjust the amount used based on the quantity of food.

3.  Honey

Honey can help reduce the saltiness while enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.

• Add a few tablespoons of honey to the pot and adjust the seasoning to taste.
• The mild sweetness of the honey will balance the saltiness and improve the overall flavor.
  Alternatively, you can use sugar instead of honey, but add it gradually to avoid making the dish overly sweet.

4.  Using Potatoes

Take a fresh potato and slice it thinly.

• Add the potato slices to the overly salty soup or stir-fry, stirring well, and let them sit for about 15 minutes.
  The potato will absorb some of the salt, thereby reducing the overall saltiness.
• Remove the potato slices afterward, and if desired, add a little MSG to fine-tune the flavor.

5.  Using Tomatoes

If you don’t have lemon or potatoes, you can use tomatoes as a substitute.

• Slice the tomatoes into thick pieces and add them to the dish.
• Let them sit in the dish for 15–20 minutes.
  Tomatoes will help reduce the saltiness, although their mild sour taste may not be as effective as the other methods.

Try these alternatives next time you find your dish too salty, and enjoy a more balanced flavor without diluting your meal with extra water.