"Secret ingredients" thar make a good dish a great dish

[PrincessHoneysuckle]

I've discovered recently that very finely chopped cooked smoked bacon really is a game changer in lasagne.I add it to the ragu.Tastes Amazing.

Anyone else got any?

Delighted to see this recipe. I used to have this when I was growing up in Wales (we called it suety) and had forgotten how delicious it was.
Agree with PPs about Hungarian paprika. I get a goulash mix from the Spicery that contains it and it makes a stunning dish.
Initially, I was dubious about the lack of tomatoes in the recipe (iirc, it's just the spices in the mix, meat, onions and peppers) but it's a favourite with us now.

I’m one of those that reacts to MSG, so steer clear of it.

I try and cook stews etc in advance as I reckon 24hrs in the fridge allows the flavours to develop.

However, I always have a jar of this in my fridge… works wonders in stuff that you’ve just cooked.

https://www.waitrose.com/ecom/products/cooks-ingredients-umami-paste/793592-312397-312398?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgobX1uPwhQMVoJNQBh1lQwwrEAQYASABEgKzIfD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds

Im now wondering just HOW much Parmesan I ave to consume before I can get a rind! 🤣

Hugh F Wittingstall has a lamb and squash curry recipe that asks for a dollop of chutney in it. It does really make a difference.

https://www.rivercottage.net/recipes/lamb-and-squash-curry

Lots of posts suggesting a spoonful of marmite in beefy dishes - try a spoonful of Bovril instead.

ooh i've often wondered about this - what's the difference @greeneggsandhamhocks ?

Shallots are sweeter

Anchovies in spag. bol.

Sausage mince (not pork mince itself but actual van ) with fennel seed, chopped garlic, salt, paprika and a dollop of ketchup makes beautiful Italian sausage meatballs.
You’ve got to have that fennel seed though.
thank you so much @SerenityNowInsanityLater
Now i can make meatballs . And yes the fennel is essential to stop the pork from being too sweet.

@WinterDeWinter shallots give a kind of rich 'home made' sweetness- I use them a lot

I put decent vanilla essence into many many things like banana smoothies, yoghurt, hot honey and vanilla milk, in all baking. I'm out of control.
I don't think even the good banilka essence is as good as it used to be 20 years ago 🧐

Parmesan cheese contains a lot of msg,just in case you didnt know.

I have been adding paprika to pasta dishes and it really does lift it! More rounded flavour.

I have gone through half a tub since I bought it.

Anchovy essence - it's amazing

https://www.andersonandhill.co.uk/product/geo-watkins-anchovy-sauce/