No, onion salt is not better than salt. While it adds flavor, onion salt is still high in sodium and should be used sparingly.
Understanding Onion Salt
Onion salt is a blend of dehydrated onion powder and table salt. As noted in several sources, including Savoring The Good, it offers a combination of onion flavor and saltiness. However, a key point from a health perspective (as stated in the provided text: "The bottom line is that whether it's sea salt or table salt, it makes no difference: adding salt to your food is best avoided altogether. Onion, celery and garlic salt are also high in sodium and are no better.") is that the high sodium content remains a concern.
Many sources highlight the difference between onion salt and onion powder. Onion powder simply consists of dried onions, whereas onion salt adds the sodium from table salt. The choice between them depends on the desired flavor profile and sodium intake. Simply Recipes and Mom's Who Think both explain these distinctions clearly.
Flavor and Application
Onion salt provides a convenient way to add both onion flavor and salt to dishes. However, the added sodium should be considered when using it. Recipes may call for onion salt specifically for its unique flavor profile. For example, Trader Joe's Onion Salt is noted for being a more interesting blend than standard onion salt. Using it in moderation is key to enjoying the flavor without excessive sodium.
- Example: Onion salt can enhance the flavor of roasted vegetables, sprinkled on top after cooking.
- Caution: Overuse of onion salt can easily over-salt a dish, especially considering the already present sodium. A redditor pointed this out in a discussion on r/AskCulinary, cautioning against over-salting with garlic salt.
Health Considerations
The significant sodium content in onion salt makes it no healthier than regular salt. Reducing overall sodium intake is generally recommended for better health.
