As foodies, we are always searching for new ways to enhance the flavours of our meals. One such flavour that has gained popularity in recent years is umami. Often described as the fifth taste, umami adds depth and complexity to dishes, making them more satisfying and enjoyable. But what exactly is umami, and how can you use it in your food creation? In this 1-2-Taste blog post, we will explore the world of umami, its taste profile, and its uses in everyday food and food manufacturing.
Umami is a Japanese word that translates to “pleasant savoury taste.” It is a taste sensation that is distinct from the four primary tastes: sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. The umami taste is often described as savoury, meaty, or brothy, and it is known for creating a sensation of fullness and satisfaction in the mouth.
Umami taste is created by glutamate, an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods. Foods that are high in glutamate, such as tomatoes, mushrooms, and Parmesan cheese, have a pronounced umami flavour. Umami taste is often described as a round, full-bodied taste that lingers on the tongue.
Umami taste is a common flavour in many everyday foods, from tomato-based pasta sauces to meaty stews and soups. Adding umami-rich ingredients, such as soy sauce, anchovies, or mushrooms, can elevate the flavours of your dishes and make them more satisfying. You can also create umami taste by slow-cooking meat or vegetables, as this process releases the natural glutamates and enhances the umami flavour.
Food manufacturers have been using umami flavour for years to enhance the taste of their products. Umami taste is often added to processed foods, such as snacks, soups, and sauces, to make them more flavourful and appealing to consumers. Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a popular food additive that is used to create umami flavour in processed foods.
MSG is often associated with umami taste, but they are not the same thing. While glutamate is the compound responsible for umami taste, MSG is a chemically synthesized version of glutamate. Many people have reported adverse reactions to MSG, such as headaches, flushing, and sweating, which has led to its controversial status as a food additive. However, consuming foods high in naturally occurring glutamates, such as tomatoes, mushrooms, or Parmesan cheese, is generally considered safe and can provide the same umami taste without the risk of adverse reactions.
