There are always new kitchen tips and tricks to discover, and some of them truly stand out as game-changers. By browsing through a subreddit dedicated to cooking and comments from the BuzzFeed Community, a list of small but surprising cooking tips has been compiled. These tips are shared by individuals who have found unique and innovative ways to enhance the flavor and texture of their dishes. From adding pureed carrots to tomato sauce to using Kraft Macaroni & Cheese packets to season popcorn, these tips range from simple swaps to unexpected flavor combinations that can elevate any meal.
One tip involves substituting butter with Kerrygold butter when making cookies from bagged or boxed mix like Tollhouse, resulting in cookies with a richer and more flavorful taste. Another surprising tip is adding a pinch of salt to hot chocolate to enhance the chocolate flavor without making it salty. Butter is also highlighted as a secret ingredient for incredible tomato sauce, while adding horseradish to mashed potatoes can add a depth of flavor without being overpowering. These unconventional tips showcase how small tweaks in ingredients can make a big difference in the final dish.
Creativity in the kitchen shines through in tips like mixing instant beef-flavored ramen with peanut butter and sriracha for a creamy, savory, and spicy dish. Using mayonnaise and garlic salt instead of butter for a grilled cheese sandwich or adding chicken broth instead of water to recipes can bring out complex and richer flavors. Adding soy sauce to tuna or chicken salad for an extra salty tang, or incorporating Jell-O Vanilla Instant Pudding powder into baked goods for added softness and moisture, are examples of how simple additions can enhance the taste of a dish.
More surprising tips include freezing overripe bananas before using them in banana bread, using mayonnaise in scrambled eggs to make them light and fluffy, and adding baking soda to grits or polenta to reduce cooking time. For creamier mac ‘n’ cheese, cream cheese can be added to the sauce, while Greek yogurt or mayonnaise can be spread on fish fillets before baking to keep them moist. Using bacon grease instead of butter or olive oil for added flavor or incorporating mustard into savory dishes for a tangy kick are unique ways to elevate the taste of a dish.
Experimenting with ingredients like brown sugar or maple syrup in savory dishes, adding instant mashed potatoes as a thickener to sauces, or using a cheese grater to grate butter over leftovers are all innovative ways to enhance the flavor and texture of a dish. These unexpected cooking tips showcase the creativity and ingenuity of home cooks who have found clever ways to add depth and complexity to their meals. Whether it’s a simple swap or a unique flavor combination, these tips can inspire others to try new techniques in the kitchen and take their cooking to the next level.
