Today we’ll look at what some social media types call ‘culinary game-changers’. And decide for our-selves just how monumental their tips and hacks are. I’ve winnowed out some that you and I already know. And added some of my own…
Sauce Bolognese: A pinch of Cinnamon and/or Nutmeg elevates it way above the everyday!
We all have little pinches and sprinkles and dollops of ‘secret’ ingredients that we fancy make our versions of classic dishes just a little bit better than everybody else’s.
Redditor u/Battle4Seattle asked, “What is your one secret (or not-so secret) ingredient that you add to a dish to make it dramatically better?” And got back a pile of responses – many nutty, some nifty!
The best of the best…
… According to my judgment, anyway. You can visit the source post (linked above) to view the whole parade.
Spice packets
“I use the spice packets that come with instant ramen as a popcorn seasoning. Mix the powder with some melted butter or margarine and then toss with the popcorn.”
Or… Just sprinkle the spice blend right onto the hot popcorn, like I do. Try whatever other blends you may have lounging in your spice cupboard. You may be surprised at what they do0 for not only pop-corn, but other ‘naturally bland’ foods.
Jalapeño juice
“I always add a dash of pickled jalapeño juice to deviled eggs, macaroni salad, and potato salad.”
If you add a dash of regular pickle juice to any of your dishes, for the zingy edge, this hack offers a spicy option you probably didn’t think of before…
Cinnamon and/or Nutmeg
“I add cinnamon and/or nutmeg to savoury dishes like stews. Just a dash and not enough for the flavours of the spices to be perceptible. It imparts an amazing depth of flavor.”
You can also use those flavour triggers in soups, sauces and marinades to great effect.
Stow-away Brown Sugar
“If a baking recipe calls for sugar, I make 1/4 of the sugar brown sugar, even if it’s not called for. It makes your baked goods […] taste amazing”
I love this one! I’ve done this on occasion with great success.
Secret Cardamon
“I love cardamon in any sweet dish. I make Alton Brown’s homemade marshmallows, and put a tiny pinch of cardamom in them while they’re whipping. It elevates them from great to absolutely in-credible.”
Experiment with cardamon (see photo, top of page) in savoury dishes, too! It’s found right next to cumin and coriander on the ingredient lists of many Asian spice blends and masalas.
My take
I cracked a smile at every one of the above ‘secret ingredient’ hacks when I read it. This is the stuff truly great dishes are made of!
~ Maggie J.