Flavor pairing is the practice of combining different ingredients based on their complementary tastes and aromas. This technique relies on the idea that certain flavors enhance each other, creating a more enjoyable eating experience. For example, chocolate and sea salt work well together because the saltiness enhances the sweetness of the chocolate, making the overall flavor more complex. Many chefs and food enthusiasts use flavor pairing to create innovative dishes. By understanding the science behind flavors, they can experiment with unexpected combinations, such as strawberries and balsamic vinegar or bacon and maple syrup. This approach encourages creativity in cooking and can lead to delightful new culinary experiences.