A Redditor noticed that chefs often use more ingredients than they state in their recipes, especially fat and salt [1459↑].

One commenter suggested that this is because listing higher amounts of fat and salt can scare people off [2097↑]. It was also mentioned that chefs might fudge the time it takes to caramelize onions [960↑].

Someone else joked that the stated rules are just guidelines [3345↑].

Another user pointed out that America's Test Kitchen is more precise, even using rulers to ensure accuracy in measurements [519↑].

A Redditor asked about unconventional uses of common ingredients to elevate recipes [265↑].

One user shared that a splash of pickle juice can make your burger meat better [274↑], while another suggested Chinese black vinegar in any lentil or bean-based dish [184↑].

Someone mentioned adding unflavored gelatin to ground meat to prevent moisture loss and improve texture [188↑]. Another Reddit user recommended adding a few drops of fish sauce to any savory dish to improve the taste [243↑].

One Redditor shared a cooking tip about chopping onions outside to avoid tears [290↑]. It was a simple solution discovered by accident, making the cooking experience much more pleasant. This inspired others to share their own unusual, but effective cooking hacks.

One user advised to stop babysitting the pan [622↑]. Allowing food to sear undisturbed for about 60 seconds can significantly improve the final result, boosting kitchen confidence. However, one user pointed out that knowing when to leave food alone and when to attend to it is crucial [164↑].

Another tip involved using a scrap bowl next to the cutting board for vegetable and fruit scraps [350↑]. This streamlines the prepping process by saving time spent walking to the waste bin.

Another Redditor suggested smelling spices or sauces over the cooking pan to gauge their compatibility before adding them [188↑]. This way you can smell both at the same time to determine if it works and how much is needed.

A Redditor shared their success in finally creating a delicious pot roast after struggling with bland or dry results for years [338↑]. The key, according to them, was achieving a warm, buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture with tender vegetables and perfect seasoning. They also provided their recipe, inviting suggestions for further improvement.

They use a 4lb roast, 3 carrots, 3 russet potatoes, 1 big onion, 3 garlic cloves, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, dried thyme, dried rosemary, garlic powder, 1 packet lipton french onion soup mix, beef broth and oil. First they pat the roast with paper towels and coat it with a thin layer of olive oil. Then they smother it with salt, pepper, thyme and rosemary. After they put the roast in a hot pan to get a nice brown crust on all sides.

Commenters discussed how great it is to prepare the roast at night, keep it in the fridge, and start the slow cooker before going to work, to come home to a delicious meal [64↑]. One user asked about the cut of beef, and the author specified it was a chuck roast [26↑, 29↑].

Another Reddit user agreed about the importance of using a chuck roast for a fall-apart, delicious pot roast [19↑].