seasoning

(noun) something added to food primarily for the savor it imparts. Synonyms: flavorer, flavourer, flavoring, flavouring, seasoner.

(noun) the act of adding a seasoning to food.

(verb) lend flavor to. Synonyms: season, flavor, flavour. Example: "Season the chicken breast after roasting it."

(verb) make fit. Synonyms: season, harden. Example: "This trip will season even the hardiest traveller."

(verb) make more temperate, acceptable, or suitable by adding something else; moderate. Synonyms: temper, season, mollify. Example: "She tempered her criticism."