Spaghetti is a dinner-time staple across the UK due to its affordability and versatility. It’s easy to cook, but can sometimes get a bit bland and boring.
However, one simple ingredient can help transform spaghetti and give it a richer taste. It was shared by users on social platform Reddit who agreed that it “adds an umami kick”. Others went one step further and suggested a cheaper alternative to the ingredient which can easily be added to spaghetti.
Therivera asked: “Which secret ingredients should I add to spaghetti for a richer flavor?” The post has amassed over 1,000 comments with a number of people agreeing on one ingredient.
TiesoB said: “Anchovy paste. It adds a umami kick.” The comment has received 520 upvotes so far and received multiple positive replies.
Some users added that fish sauce can be used as a substitute for anchovy paste. Hot-Remote9937 wrote: “Similarly, but easier, just use fish sauce. A few splashes is all you need but adds depth and lots of umami to any red sauce.”
Anyella added: “Fish sauce! Much easier to distribute into the sauce and cheaper!” _Bon_Vivant_ agreed: “As a substitute for anchovy paste, I now use fish sauce.
“It’s fermented anchovies, and it has a MUCH longer shelf life. It adds the same umami kick and no discernible difference in taste.”
Toasterferret put: “Fish sauce legit goes in every savory dish I make.”
According to cooking experts at The Kitchn, anchovy paste acts as a “flavour amplifier” to spaghetti. While some may be concerned that it will add a fishy taste to the dish, they insist that this is not the case.
They said: “Whether you’re making a simple pot of spaghetti in marinara sauce or a fast and fancy lemon caper situation, you pasta deserves a bit of anchovy paste. Yes, I know anchovies are controversial, but even if you’re not an anchovy person, I encourage you to try the paste in pasta.
“Anchovy paste won’t add a fishy taste to your beloved bowl — instead it acts as a flavor amplifier, bolstering a flat-tasting tomato sauce or a boring garlic and olive oil sauce. It lends a deep umami richness, along with a nice salty kick, making it an instant upgrade that seriously can’t be beat.”
However, they advise against adding too much to begin with. It’s better to add a small amount before tasting and putting more in.
Meanwhile, another cook said adding fennel seeds would make the “best spaghetti bolognese sauce ever”.
