Condiments

The term “condiment” originally meant pickled or preserved foods. By the beginning of the twenty-first century, it was broadly applied to a variety of substances that enhance, intensify, or alter the flavor of other foods. Condiments can enhance delectable foods and make bland or unsatisfying foods palatable. Condiments have been used by Americans since colonial times, but they have changed over the centuries. The earliest condiments were salt, pepper, seeds, and herbs. In colonial times only the middle and upper classes could afford many condiments and the ones that were used were simple: salt, pepper, butter, jams, jellies, mustard, sugar, and molasses.