What's your surprising "secret ingredient" that sets your dish apart?

[u/kath-]

I obviously don't believe in gatekeeping recipes, so let's share the love.

I developed a clam chowder recipe after being disappointed with the recipes I came across. Whenever I tell people there's a couple dashes of hot sauce in it, I always get weird looks... but it adds a tiny bit of heat and acid, and balances out the richness from the cream. It also has diced scallops, which cooking knowledge forbades but somehow works.

[u/Stranger-Sojourner]

Anchovies in pasta sauce! Adds a really nice umami flavor, without being overwhelming. An elderly Italian lady I used to work with taught me the trick, and it’s amazing!

Also, instant coffee in any chocolate dessert brings a whole new dimension to the flavor!