Cooking advice
When a dish tastes flat: salt, acid, fat or crunch?
Many bland dishes do not need more spices; they need balance. Taste first and work out what is missing.
What you need: Salt, lemon or vinegar, olive oil, herbs and a crunchy topping.
How to do it
- Taste a spoonful. If flavours seem muted, add a small pinch of salt and taste again.
- If the dish feels heavy, add a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar.
- If it is dry or too sharp, round it out with oil, tahini or another creamy ingredient.
- If everything feels soft, add toasted nuts, seeds or crunchy chickpeas just before serving.
Common mistake
Too much lemon can be just as distracting as too much salt. Adjust in small steps.
Quick tip
A little lemon zest and good oil can wake up a simple vegetable soup.