covertingredient
nounUK /ˈkʌvətɪŋɡriːdiənt/
US /ˈkʌvərtɪŋɡriːdiənt/
A secret ingredient that is hidden in a recipe.
The chef added a covert ingredient to the sauce to make it taste special.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A hidden factor that quietly affects a result.
Trust was the covert ingredient in their successful partnership.
3. A concealed substance used in a chemical or cooking process.
The lab report listed a covert ingredient not shown on the label.
4. An undisclosed element that gives something its unique quality.
Humor was the covert ingredient that made the speech memorable.