Condiment vs. Seasoning — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 3, 2024
Condiments are substances added to food to enhance flavor or complement a dish, while seasonings are specific ingredients used during cooking to enhance taste.
Difference Between Condiment and Seasoning
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Condiments are often served with food, allowing individuals to adjust the flavor of their meal to personal preference. Examples include ketchup, mustard, and mayonnaise. Whereas seasonings are used during the cooking process to enhance or add flavor to the dish, such as salt, pepper, and herbs.
While condiments are typically ready-to-use sauces or spreads added after cooking, seasonings are usually dry or fresh ingredients mixed into the food before or during cooking. This distinction highlights the different roles they play in food preparation and consumption.
Condiments come in various forms, including sauces, spreads, and pickles, and are used to complement or enhance the flavor of a meal. On the other hand, seasonings can be singular ingredients or a blend of spices and herbs used to add depth and flavor to a dish.
The choice between using a condiment or seasoning can depend on the cuisine, dish, or individual taste preferences. Condiments can offer a burst of flavor or add moisture to a dish, while seasonings are integral to the cooking process, building the dish's foundational flavors.
Condiments, due to their packaging and ingredients, often have a longer shelf life and are stored in refrigerators after opening. Seasonings, especially dried ones, are stored in a cool, dry place and can last for a significant amount of time, though their flavor intensity may diminish over time.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Substances added to food post-cooking to enhance or complement its flavor.
Ingredients used during cooking to enhance the taste.
Examples
Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise.
Salt, pepper, herbs, spices.
Form
Often liquid or semi-solid.
Can be dry (spices, herbs) or fresh.
Usage
Added after food is prepared.
Used before or during cooking.
Purpose
To adjust or add flavor to personal preference.
To build foundational flavors in a dish.
Compare with Definitions
Condiment
Can be sweet, savory, spicy, or acidic to enhance meal flavor.
Honey mustard is a condiment that combines sweet and tangy tastes.
Seasoning
Can be used in marinades, rubs, or added directly to dishes.
The steak was marinated with seasoning overnight for flavor.
Condiment
Often liquid or semi-solid, like sauces or spreads.
The burger was topped with a variety of condiments.
Seasoning
An ingredient added during cooking to enhance the flavor of food.
Salt is the most basic seasoning, used in nearly every dish.
Condiment
Served alongside food for individual application.
Condiments like ketchup and mustard were provided on the side.
Seasoning
Affects the aroma, taste, and sometimes color of food.
Paprika seasoning added both color and a sweet taste to the soup.
Condiment
A substance used to add flavor to food after it is cooked.
She added soy sauce, a popular condiment, to her rice.
Seasoning
Integral to recipe preparation, influencing the dish's overall taste.
Fresh herbs are essential seasonings in Mediterranean cooking.
Condiment
Enhances or complements the main dish without altering its fundamental taste.
The sandwich's flavor was enhanced with a garlic aioli condiment.
Seasoning
Includes herbs, spices, and blends for flavor depth.
The chef used a special seasoning blend for the chicken.
Condiment
A condiment is a spice, sauce, or preparation that is added to food, after cooking, to impart a specific flavor, to enhance the flavor, or to complement the dish. A table condiment or table sauce is more specifically a condiment that is served separately from the food and is added to taste by the diner.
Seasoning
Seasoning is the process of adding herbs, salts or spices to food to enhance the flavour.
Condiment
A substance, such as a relish, vinegar, or spice, used to flavor or complement food.
Seasoning
Something, such as a spice or herb, used to flavor food. Also called seasoner.
Condiment
Something used to enhance the flavor of food; for example, salt or pepper.
Seasoning
(cooking) Something used to add taste or flavour to food, such as salt and pepper or other condiment, herb or spice.
Condiment
Something used to give relish to food, and to gratify the taste; a pungment and appetizing substance, as pepper or mustard; seasoning.
As for radish and the like, they are for condiments, and not for nourishment.
Seasoning
That which is added to any species of food, to give it a higher relish, as salt, spices, etc.; a condiment.
Seasoning
Something added to food primarily for the savor it imparts
Seasoning
The act of adding a seasoning to food
Common Curiosities
Are condiments unhealthy?
While some condiments can be high in sugar, salt, or fat, many healthy options are available, and moderation is key to their consumption.
Is using condiments and seasonings necessary in cooking?
While not necessary, they enhance and complement the natural flavors of food, elevating the overall dining experience.
Do all cultures use condiments and seasonings?
Yes, though the types and preferences for condiments and seasonings vary widely across different cuisines and cultures.
How can I reduce my sodium intake from condiments and seasonings?
Look for low-sodium versions of condiments and use herbs and spices for seasoning instead of salt.
Can a condiment also be a seasoning?
Some ingredients can function as both, depending on their use in the cooking process or added afterwards to enhance flavor.
Can I make my own condiments and seasonings at home?
Yes, homemade condiments and seasoning blends can be made using fresh ingredients, allowing for customization and control over what's in your food.
How long do condiments last after opening?
It varies by product; check the label for storage instructions and expiration dates, but most require refrigeration after opening.
Can condiments and seasonings be used in vegetarian or vegan cooking?
Absolutely, many are plant-based by nature, and there are numerous options suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets.
How should I store seasonings to maintain their flavor?
Store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve their flavor and potency.
Are there any alternatives for common allergens in condiments and seasonings?
Many alternatives exist for allergens like gluten, soy, and nuts, including homemade versions or specialty products designed to be allergen-free.
Are there any condiments or seasonings that originated from specific countries?
Many condiments and seasonings are closely associated with specific cuisines, like soy sauce with Asian cooking or harissa with North African cuisine.
How do I choose the right condiment or seasoning for my dish?
Consider the dish's flavor profile and what you want to enhance or complement; experimentation and tasting are key.
How can I learn more about using condiments and seasonings in my cooking?
Explore cookbooks, cooking classes, and online resources dedicated to culinary techniques and flavor pairing to expand your knowledge and skills.
Can I use expired seasonings?
While they may not spoil like fresh food, their flavor potency decreases over time, so it's best to replace them for optimal taste.
Are there any condiments or seasonings that are considered delicacies?
Yes, some, like truffle oil or saffron, are considered luxurious additions to meals due to their price and flavor profile.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
