It turns out, according to experts, the best salt depends on what you’re making.

Simply Recipes/ Alison Bickel

Salt is one of the most important ingredients in cooking.

The crystals are perfectly uniform in shape and size, and they pour easily from whatever theyre stored in.

Table salt poured into small wooden spoon

Simply Recipes/ Alison Bickel

So what makes them this way?

For this reason, many chefs reach for a box of non-iodized table salt when baking.

If you prefer using table salt, look for brands without iodine and other additives.

Cylinder of Iodized Morton Salt

Alison Bickle

The very small crystals also make it saltier by volume than most other types of salt.

Though sea salts vary widely, many cooks prefer the natural variety for their flavor and texture.

Flaky sea salts are particularly popular as finishing salts, thanks to their pleasant crunch.

Easiest Turkey Brine Ever adding salt to the pot

Emma Christensen

Flaky sea salt in bowl with small wooden spoon

Alison Bickle

maldon sea salt

Simply Recipes / Sheela Prakash