The constant annoyance of salt clumping or not adhering well to food is finally addressed by a product that actually delivers for grilling. Having tested various types, I found that the Morton Coarse Kosher Salt 3 lbs strikes the perfect balance between coarse texture and ease of use. Its flaky, large grains make it simple to pinch, sprinkle evenly, and get that ideal seasoning without mess or fuss, especially when applying rubs or brines. Plus, it dissolves slowly, giving you greater control over flavor during grilling.
While some options like Dos Anclas Sal Parrillera offer refined grains meant for adherence, their higher price makes them less budget-friendly. Others, like smoked salts or specialty blends, add unique flavors but can overpower the meat or complicate recipes. After thorough testing, I recommend the Morton Coarse Kosher Salt for its blend of versatility, quality, and value. It genuinely enhances grilling results and is my go-to for consistent, flavorful seasoning that elevates every cookout. Trust me—this salt makes a noticeable difference in flavor and ease of use.
Top Recommendation: Morton Coarse Kosher Salt 3 lbs
Why We Recommend It: This product’s large, flaky grains provide optimal control for pinching and sprinkling, ideal for grilling. Its non-iodized, kosher certification ensures purity and a clean, balanced flavor that won’t overwhelm proteins. Unlike more expensive or specialty salts, it’s versatile enough for brining, marinades, and even glass rimming. Its affordable price enhances value without sacrificing quality, making it my top choice for consistent, delicious results.
Best salt for grilling: Our Top 5 Picks
- Morton Coarse Kosher Salt 3 lbs – Best for Roasting Vegetables
- Dos Anclas Sal Parrillera 2 Pack, Rock Salt for Grilling – Best Value
- Saker Cold Smoked Alderwood Sea Salt 1 lb – Best Premium Option
- McCormick Grill Mates Black Pepper & Flake Salt, 5.71 oz – Best for Finishing Dishes
- Cris-Sal Gourmet Grilling and BBQ Sea Salt, 17.63 oz – Best Value
Morton Coarse Kosher Salt 3 lbs
- ✓ Easy to pinch and sprinkle
- ✓ Versatile for many uses
- ✓ Large, flaky crystals
- ✕ Slightly coarse for delicate dishes
- ✕ Can be more wasteful than fine salt
| Crystal Size | Large, flaky crystals |
| Grain Size | Coarse |
| Net Weight | 3 pounds (1.36 kg) |
| Iodine Content | Non-iodized |
| Kosher Certification | Kosher for Passover, Pareve |
| Usage Applications | Brining, grilling, baking, rimming glasses, marinades, rubs |
As I reached into the box of Morton Coarse Kosher Salt for the first time, I immediately noticed its large, flaky crystals. They feel almost like tiny shards of ice in your hand, which makes it surprisingly fun to pinch and sprinkle.
The shape isn’t just eye-catching; it really does make seasoning feel more deliberate and satisfying.
When I started using it on a steak before grilling, I appreciated how easily it clung to the meat. Unlike fine salts that dissolve quickly, these flakes stay intact longer and give that satisfying crunch with each bite.
The coarse texture is perfect for creating a flavorful crust without over-salting.
It’s versatile enough to handle other tasks too—rimming cocktail glasses, brining poultry, or adding a finishing touch to roasted vegetables. The size of the crystals makes it easier to control how much you use, which is great when you want a balanced, not overly salty, flavor.
The box is sturdy and easy to pour from, and the 3 lb size means I won’t run out anytime soon. Plus, I love that it’s non-iodized and kosher certified—peace of mind when using it for special occasions or Passover.
Honestly, this salt has become my go-to for grilling sessions. It adds just the right amount of texture and flavor, elevating even simple meats to something special.
I’d definitely recommend it for anyone serious about their grilling or big on flavor control.
Dos Anclas Sal Parrillera 2 Pack, Rock Salt for Grilling
- ✓ Perfect grain size for grilling
- ✓ Easy to control with shaker
- ✓ Versatile for multiple foods
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited to medium grains
| Grain Size | Medium coarse crystals |
| Ingredients | Sodium chloride and potassium iodate |
| Shelf Life | Up to 5 years |
| Packaging | 2 shakers for easy dispensing and storage |
| Origin | Imported from Argentina |
| Use Cases | Suitable for grilling meats, seafood, vegetables, soups, and dips |
As I sprinkled this Dos Anclas Sal Parrillera onto my steaks, I immediately noticed how the medium-sized crystals clung perfectly to the meat’s surface. Unlike finer salts that dissolve too quickly or coarse salts that roll off, this salt strikes the sweet spot, giving each bite a satisfying crunch and burst of flavor.
The flavor is clean and straightforward, just salty enough to enhance without overpowering. What really impressed me is how evenly it distributes, thanks to those ideal grain sizes.
It’s especially great for grilling because the crystals adhere well to hot surfaces, creating that perfect seasoned crust.
Using the shaker makes it super easy to control how much you add—no more over-salting or wasting salt. Plus, the packaging is sturdy and compact, so it’s easy to keep in your pantry or toss into a picnic bag.
I also tried it on vegetables and seafood, and it elevated everything without needing extra seasoning.
One thing I appreciated is that it’s made with just salt and potassium iodate—no weird additives or preservatives. That pure ingredient list gives me confidence that I’m adding quality to my grill sessions.
It’s a versatile salt that works well for more than just meat, making it a handy staple for any kitchen or outdoor cookout.
Overall, this salt really simplifies the seasoning process and delivers a flavor punch that’s just right. It’s a solid upgrade from regular table salt, especially if you love grilling and want that perfect crust every time.
Saker Cold Smoked Alderwood Sea Salt 1 lb
- ✓ Deep smoky flavor
- ✓ Versatile for many dishes
- ✓ Pure and additive-free
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Fine grain may clump over time
| Salt Type | Kosher sea salt |
| Grain Size | Fine ground |
| Net Weight | 1 lb (16 oz) |
| Smoking Method | Cold-smoked over alderwood |
| Mineral Content | Contains essential minerals from unrefined sea salt |
| Additive-Free | Free from additives and artificial ingredients |
People often assume that all smoked salts taste pretty similar, just adding a smoky kick without much nuance. But after using this Saker Cold Smoked Alderwood Sea Salt, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
The moment you sprinkle it on your food, you’ll notice a deep, woodsy aroma that’s far richer than typical smoked salts.
The texture is fine, almost like a delicate dusting, which makes it super easy to control how much you add. It melts beautifully into meats, vegetables, and even popcorn, giving everything a subtle, smoky undertone.
I especially loved how it elevated my grilled chicken and roasted veggies without overpowering their natural flavors.
What really surprised me is how versatile it is. You can use it as a finishing touch or incorporate it into marinades and sauces for an extra layer of smoky complexity.
And because it’s kosher sea salt, it doesn’t just taste good—it’s also a healthy, additive-free option. You can tell it’s crafted with care, sustainably harvested, and free from unnecessary fillers.
Overall, this salt makes me feel like a professional chef in my own kitchen. It’s perfect for everyday meals or when you want to impress guests with a gourmet touch.
Plus, it’s a great value for the quality you’re getting—rich flavor in every grain.
McCormick Grill Mates Black Pepper & Flake Salt, 5.71 oz
- ✓ Enhances grilled flavors naturally
- ✓ Coarse grind clings well
- ✓ Versatile for all meats and veggies
- ✕ Not ideal for fine dishes
- ✕ Packaging can vary slightly
| Main Ingredients | Coarse ground black pepper and flake sea salt |
| Net Weight | 5.71 oz (162 grams) |
| Additive-Free | No MSG added, gluten-free |
| Packaging | Varies (likely resealable container or bag) |
| Usage Compatibility | Suitable for grilling meats, vegetables, and potatoes |
| Seasoning Texture | Coarse ground for better adherence during grilling |
As soon as I tore open the packaging of the McCormick Grill Mates Black Pepper & Flake Salt, I was greeted with the bold aroma of freshly ground black pepper and a hint of sea salt freshness. The coarse grind feels substantial between your fingers, almost inviting you to sprinkle it directly onto your grilled meats.
It’s clear that this isn’t your average seasoning; it’s designed to stand up to high heat and intense flavors.
The texture is gritty yet smooth—a perfect blend of coarse black pepper and flaky sea salt. When you sprinkle it over a steak or burger, it clings nicely, thanks to its coarse grind, and starts to melt into the meat as it grills.
What I liked most is how it enhances the natural flavors without overpowering them. It respects the meat, elevating each bite with a punch of peppery heat and salty crunch.
This seasoning is incredibly versatile. I’ve used it on everything from chicken to roasted vegetables and even potatoes.
It’s also great for adding a finishing touch after grilling, giving a crisp, flavorful crust. Plus, it’s free from MSG, gluten, and kosher-certified, which is a big plus if you’re health-conscious or have dietary restrictions.
The packaging is simple but effective, and the coarse grind means you don’t need to use much—just a light sprinkle does the trick. The only downside I found is that because of the coarse grind, it’s not ideal for delicate dishes that require a finer salt.
Still, for grilling and hearty foods, it’s a game-changer.
Cris-Sal Gourmet Grilling and BBQ Sea Salt, 17.63 oz
- ✓ Rich, gourmet flavor
- ✓ Perfect coarse texture
- ✓ Healthy mineral content
- ✕ Coarse crystals take longer to dissolve
- ✕ Slightly higher price
| Salt Type | Coarse sea salt from Ecuador |
| Grain Size | Medium coarse crystals |
| Net Weight | 17.63 oz (500 grams) |
| Mineral Content | Contains over 74 trace minerals and elements |
| Processing Method | Low-temperature drying and grinding, unprocessed and additive-free |
| Recommended Uses | Grilling, seasoning, baking, pickling, and general culinary applications |
People often think that all sea salts are pretty much the same, just different grains and flavors. But after using Cris-Sal Gourmet Grilling and BBQ Sea Salt, I can tell you that’s a misconception.
This salt has a bold, crisp texture that really enhances grilled meats and veggies in a way regular table salt never could.
The coarse crystals feel substantial in your hand, almost like tiny rocks, and they cling perfectly to whatever you’re cooking. When you sprinkle it on steaks or skewers, you’ll notice how it melts just enough to bring out a richer flavor, without overpowering the natural taste of your food.
It’s not just salty; it’s a seasoning that adds a gourmet touch to every bite.
What I love is how versatile it is. You can toss it into soups, rub it on seafood, or even use it during baking.
The natural mineral content is a bonus, making it healthier than processed salts. Plus, the subtle crunch adds an extra layer of texture that makes your dishes feel more refined.
Handling the salt feels like working with something special—an unprocessed, pure product from pristine coastal regions. It’s a little more expensive than your average salt, but honestly, the flavor payoff is worth it.
For grilling, it’s a game-changer, especially if you want that perfect balance of flavor and crunch.
Overall, if you’re tired of bland, uniform salts, this one will elevate your cooking with just a pinch. It’s particularly fantastic for grilled meats, seafood, and even salads.
The only downside? It’s coarse, so it might take a little longer to dissolve in certain dishes.
What Types of Salt Are Best for Grilling?
The best types of salt for grilling enhance flavor and can improve the cooking process.
- Kosher Salt: This coarse salt is favored by many chefs due to its flaky texture and ability to adhere well to meats. It is excellent for seasoning before grilling as it dissolves easily and helps to form a flavorful crust on the meat.
- Sea Salt: Harvested from evaporated seawater, sea salt comes in various textures and flavors depending on its origin. It is ideal for finishing dishes after grilling, as it adds a burst of flavor and a slight crunch that elevates the overall taste experience.
- Himalayan Pink Salt: Known for its distinct pink hue and mineral content, Himalayan pink salt can be used both as a seasoning and in cooking methods like salt block grilling. Its unique flavor profile can enhance the natural taste of grilled foods while also providing trace minerals.
- Flavored Salt: This includes salts infused with herbs, spices, or smoke, which can add an extra layer of flavor to grilled items. They are perfect for seasoning meats or vegetables before grilling, providing a burst of flavor with minimal effort.
- Smoked Salt: Smoked salt adds a rich, deep flavor reminiscent of traditional barbecue, making it a fantastic choice for grilling. It can be used as a seasoning prior to cooking or as a finishing touch to enhance the smoky notes of grilled dishes.
How Do Flaky Salts Differ from Granulated Salts for Grilling?
Granulated salts, including table salt and kosher salt, dissolve quickly and evenly, making them ideal for seasoning during cooking processes. However, they lack the texture and final flourish that flaky salts provide, which can result in a less dynamic flavor experience on grilled foods.
The choice between flaky and granulated salts ultimately depends on the desired flavor profile and textural contrast in the grilled dishes, with each type offering unique advantages for different grilling applications.
Why Is Kosher Salt Considered Essential for Grilling?
Kosher salt is considered essential for grilling primarily because of its coarse grain size and ability to enhance flavor without overwhelming the food.
According to the Culinary Institute of America, kosher salt’s larger crystals allow for better control when seasoning, as they can be easily pinched and distributed evenly over meat, vegetables, and other grilled items. This makes it easier to season food properly, ensuring that flavors are enhanced without being masked by excessive saltiness.
The underlying mechanism of kosher salt’s effectiveness lies in its unique structure. The larger crystals create more surface area, which means they dissolve more slowly, providing a more gradual infusion of flavor. This slow dissolution allows the salt to penetrate the food deeply, enhancing moisture retention and improving texture during the grilling process. Furthermore, kosher salt’s purity—typically free of additives—ensures that the natural flavors of the grilled ingredients shine through, making it a preferred choice among chefs and grilling enthusiasts alike.
What Are the Unique Flavor Benefits of Different Grilling Salts?
The unique flavor benefits of different grilling salts can enhance the taste of your grilled dishes significantly.
- Himalayan Pink Salt: This salt contains trace minerals that not only contribute to its signature pink color but also impart a mild, slightly sweet flavor. It’s often used as a finishing salt to add a touch of elegance to grilled meats and vegetables.
- Kosher Salt: Known for its coarse texture, kosher salt is ideal for seasoning meats before grilling. Its larger grains dissolve slowly, allowing for an even distribution of flavor while helping to create a beautiful crust on the meat.
- Sea Salt: Harvested from evaporated seawater, sea salt has a clean, briny flavor that enhances the natural taste of grilled foods. Its varying coarseness levels make it versatile, suitable for both seasoning prior to grilling and as a finishing touch.
- Smoked Salt: Infused with a rich, smoky flavor through a smoking process, this salt adds depth to grilled items, mimicking the effects of traditional wood smoke. It’s particularly effective on vegetables and seafood, providing a unique flavor profile without the need for actual smoking.
- Garlic Salt: A blend of salt and garlic powder, garlic salt brings a robust flavor that complements grilled meats, especially chicken and pork. It’s a convenient option for those looking to add a savory kick without the hassle of fresh garlic preparation.
- Celery Salt: This salt, made from ground celery seeds and salt, offers a distinctive herbal flavor that pairs well with grilled vegetables and salads. Its unique taste can enhance the freshness of grilled dishes, making it a great addition to marinades as well.
How Does Sea Salt Enhance the Taste of Grilled Foods?
The texture improvement provided by sea salt is another significant advantage. Its coarse grains can create a delightful crunch on the surface of grilled foods, which contrasts beautifully with the tender interior. This textural variation adds a gourmet touch to dishes, making them more enjoyable.
Moisture retention is crucial when grilling, and sea salt plays a vital role in this aspect. By drawing moisture to the surface and creating a brine, it helps keep foods juicy and flavorful, preventing them from becoming dry and tough as they cook over high heat.
The mineral content of sea salt not only enhances flavor but also introduces a range of health benefits. These trace minerals can elevate the taste experience, adding depth and complexity that plain salt may lack, making grilled foods even more delectable.
Lastly, the versatility of sea salt allows for numerous applications in grilling. Cooks can choose between fine or coarse grains depending on their preference and the specific food being grilled, making it an adaptable seasoning choice for various culinary styles.
What Makes Himalayan Pink Salt a Popular Choice Among Grillers?
With a high smoke point, Himalayan pink salt is particularly suited for grilling, as it doesn’t break down under intense heat, ensuring that the flavor remains intact throughout the cooking process. This property makes it a reliable choice for high-temperature grilling.
The unique flavor profile of Himalayan pink salt sets it apart from regular table salt, as it imparts a more nuanced taste to meats, vegetables, and seafood, making each grilled dish more enjoyable. Grilling with this salt can transform a simple meal into a gourmet experience.
Health-conscious grillers often prefer Himalayan pink salt due to its belief in promoting better hydration and providing essential minerals. This perception of health benefits can make it a more appealing seasoning option compared to conventional salt.
Moreover, the versatility of Himalayan pink salt allows it to be utilized in various culinary applications beyond grilling. Its use as salt blocks for cooking and serving not only provides a unique presentation but also enables a distinct cooking experience, making it a favorite among culinary enthusiasts.
What Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing Grilling Salt?
When choosing the best salt for grilling, several factors should be considered to enhance flavor and cooking performance.
- Grain Size: The size of the salt grains affects how the salt interacts with food. Coarse salts are ideal for grilling as they adhere well to surfaces and provide a satisfying crunch, while fine salts dissolve quickly, making them better suited for brining or seasoning before cooking.
- Flavor Profile: Different salts come with unique flavor characteristics that can complement or enhance the taste of grilled foods. For instance, smoked salts can add a rich, smoky flavor, while herb-infused salts can contribute additional aromatic notes to meats and vegetables.
- Purity and Additives: It’s important to consider whether the salt is pure or contains additives like anti-caking agents. Pure sea salt or Himalayan salt is often preferred for grilling, as these options are less processed and can provide a cleaner, more natural flavor to the food.
- Source: The origin of the salt can influence its taste and mineral content. Sea salts harvested from specific regions may carry distinct flavors due to the local water and environment, while mined salts like Himalayan pink salt have unique mineral profiles that can enhance culinary experiences.
- Moisture Content: Some salts, particularly those that are less refined, can retain moisture which may affect how they perform on the grill. Low moisture salts are preferable for grilling as they dissolve and distribute evenly, whereas high-moisture salts can clump and may not season food effectively.
- Cost: The price of grilling salt can vary widely based on its type and source. While gourmet salts can be expensive, it’s essential to balance cost with quality, ensuring that you invest in a salt that enhances your grilling experience without breaking the bank.
How Does Salt Texture Impact Your Grilling Techniques?
The texture of salt plays a significant role in enhancing flavors and improving grilling techniques.
- Coarse Sea Salt: This type of salt has larger crystals, making it ideal for seasoning meat and vegetables before grilling. The coarse texture allows for a gradual release of flavor, ensuring that the salt penetrates the surface without overpowering the natural taste of the food.
- Flaky Sea Salt: Flaky salts, such as Maldon or fleur de sel, have a light, airy texture that makes them perfect for finishing dishes. Sprinkling flaky salt on grilled items right before serving adds a burst of flavor and a pleasant crunch, enhancing the overall eating experience.
- Table Salt: While not the first choice for grilling, table salt can still be used effectively in marinades and brines due to its fine texture. Its smaller grains dissolve quickly, allowing for even seasoning throughout meats, but care must be taken to avoid over-salting since its potency is higher compared to coarser salts.
- Smoked Salt: This type of salt is infused with smoke flavor, making it an excellent choice for grilling. By using smoked salt, you can enhance the smoky flavor profile of grilled meats and vegetables, adding depth without needing additional smoking techniques.
- Himalayan Pink Salt: Known for its mineral content and striking color, Himalayan pink salt can be used in various forms, including blocks for grilling. When heated, the salt block can impart a subtle flavor to the food while also serving as a cooking surface, allowing for a unique grilling experience.
What Are the Environmental Considerations When Choosing Salt?
When choosing salt for grilling, it is essential to consider various environmental factors that can influence your decision.
- Source of the Salt: The origin of the salt can significantly impact its environmental footprint. Sea salts, for instance, are harvested from ocean water, which can lead to issues like habitat disruption if not done sustainably, while mined salts may result in land degradation and groundwater depletion.
- Processing Methods: The way salt is processed can also affect its environmental impact. Some salts undergo extensive refining and chemical treatments that can lead to pollution, while others, like Himalayan pink salt or fleur de sel, are more naturally harvested with minimal processing, making them a more eco-friendly choice.
- Packaging: The packaging of salt products can contribute to environmental waste. Opting for salts that come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging reduces plastic pollution and promotes sustainability, whereas salts in non-recyclable packaging contribute to landfill waste.
- Transportation: The carbon footprint associated with transporting salt from its source to your local store is another consideration. Locally sourced salts generally have a lower environmental impact compared to those that are shipped internationally, as they require less fuel and contribute less to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Additives: Some salts contain additives or anti-caking agents that may have environmental implications. Choosing pure salts without additives ensures that you are not supporting practices that may harm ecosystems, as some additives are derived from industrial processes that can pollute the environment.
How Can Salt Improve the Grilling Process?
Salt plays a crucial role in enhancing the grilling process by improving flavor, texture, and moisture retention.
- Flavor Enhancement: Salt is renowned for its ability to enhance the natural flavors of meats and vegetables when grilling. By seasoning food with salt before grilling, you allow it to penetrate the surface, amplifying the taste and making each bite more enjoyable.
- Moisture Retention: When salt is applied to meat before grilling, it creates a brining effect that helps retain moisture during the cooking process. This results in juicier and more tender grilled dishes, as the salt draws out moisture and then allows it to reabsorb into the meat.
- Crispiness and Texture: Certain salts, especially coarse or flaky varieties, can contribute to a desirable crust on the surface of grilled foods. This texture contrast between the crispy exterior and the tender inside enhances the overall eating experience.
- Seasoning Balance: Using the best salt for grilling, such as kosher salt or sea salt, can help achieve a balanced seasoning. These salts dissolve well and provide an even distribution of flavor, ensuring that no part of the food is overly salty while others remain bland.
- Healthier Alternative: Salt can be used in moderation to reduce the need for additional sauces or marinades that might contain sugar or unhealthy fats. By focusing on the quality of the salt used, such as Himalayan pink salt or smoked salt, you can add unique flavors while keeping the dish healthier.
How Does Salt Affect Meat Tenderization and Flavor Absorption?
Salt plays a crucial role in both tenderizing meat and enhancing its flavor absorption during grilling.
- Table Salt: Commonly used for seasoning, table salt is fine-grained and dissolves quickly in moisture. This makes it effective for basic seasoning but may lead to uneven flavor distribution if not used properly.
- Kosher Salt: Known for its larger crystals, kosher salt is favored by chefs for its ease of handling and ability to draw moisture from meat without making it overly salty. It also helps in the brining process, allowing meat to retain moisture during cooking.
- Sea Salt: Harvested from evaporated seawater, sea salt can come in various textures and mineral contents. Its unique flavors can enhance the taste of grilled meats, and its coarser grains can provide a satisfying crunch when used as a finishing salt.
- Himalayan Pink Salt: This salt contains trace minerals that give it a pink hue and can add subtle flavors to meat. It is often used in salt blocks for grilling, where it can impart a mild saltiness while also acting as a cooking surface that retains heat.
- Flavored Salts: These salts are infused with herbs, spices, or smoke, which can significantly enhance the flavor profile of grilled meats. Using flavored salts can add depth and complexity without the need for additional marinades or rubs.
What Are Effective Tips for Using Salt While Grilling?
When using salt, especially in rubs or marinades, ensure it complements other flavors like acid (citrus or vinegar) or sweetness (honey or brown sugar) for a well-rounded taste. This balance is crucial to avoid overpowering the natural flavors of the ingredients.
How Should You Season Your Meat for Optimal Grilling Results?
The best salts for grilling enhance flavor, help with moisture retention, and create a perfect crust on meats.
- Kosher Salt: Kosher salt is a popular choice for grilling due to its coarse texture, which makes it easy to sprinkle evenly over meat. Its larger grains allow for better adherence and control when seasoning, ensuring that the meat is well-flavored without being overly salty.
- Sea Salt: Sea salt is harvested from evaporated seawater and comes in various grain sizes, making it versatile for grilling. It adds a distinct mineral flavor that can enhance the natural taste of the meat, and its flaky texture can create a delightful crunch when used as a finishing salt.
- Himalayan Pink Salt: Himalayan pink salt contains trace minerals that provide a unique flavor profile and is often used in salt blocks for grilling. When heated, it can impart a subtle taste to meats, and its vibrant color adds visual appeal to the dish.
- Flavored Salts: Flavored salts, such as garlic salt, smoked salt, or herb-infused salts, can add complexity to grilled meats. These specialty salts allow you to experiment with different flavor combinations, enhancing the overall taste and aroma of the dish.
- Table Salt: While table salt is widely available and inexpensive, it’s often more refined and has a finer grain than other salts. It can be used in a pinch, but be cautious with the quantity, as its stronger salinity can easily overpower the natural flavors of the meat.