隠かくし味あじ

noun

secret ingredient; subtle seasoning

A small amount of an ingredient added to a dish to subtly enhance the overall flavor without being directly noticeable. Often used in cooking contexts, but can also be used figuratively for a hidden element that improves something.

• このカレーの隠かくし味あじはチョコレートです。

  The secret ingredient in this curry is chocolate.

• プロの料りょう理り人にんは隠かくし味あじに味み噌そを使つかうことがある。

  Professional chefs sometimes use miso as a subtle seasoning.