Fat plays an essential role in cooking, adding flavor, texture, and moisture to foods, not to mention fat is an important source of energy in a balanced diet. Celeb chef Gordon Ramsay loves cooking with this kind of fat that packs a savory punch, so you can get more flavor with just a few tablespoons.

According to Ramsay, the rendered fat from a seared duck breast makes the perfect base for a side of sautéed mushrooms. Duck fat's high smoke point makes it great for searing and sautéing and adds a delicious meaty flavor to mushrooms, potatoes, and other veggies, not to mention it's a thrifty use for leftover fat after cooking duck.

To give Ramsay’s recommendation a try, buy a duck and render the fat yourself by cutting off the skin and fat and frying it in a pan with water. You can also go the easier route and buy pre-packaged duck fat online; either way, this delectable fat can take the place of oil or butter in most savory recipes to make your cooking taste like a restaurant's.