Experiment with Umami Flavor

Umami is known as the “fifth taste,” following the better known sweet, salty, sour, and bitter. It’s described as a rich, satisfying flavor; in cooking, it’s what makes food feel deep, hearty, and complete.

Umami is essential for building flavor and adds depth and richness, helping dishes taste more balanced and full. Without it, food can feel flat even when seasoned well. This can be an area to explore if you’re looking to up your at home cooking game (or if you already feel pretty comfortable but might be feeling that flat experience with dishes and wondering what to do to punch it up).

Common sources of umami:

• Soy sauce, miso paste, fish sauce, Worcestershire sauce

• Mushrooms (especially shiitake), tomatoes, garlic, caramelized onions

• Aged cheeses like Parmesan

• Anchovies and cured meats

• Fermented foods like kimchi

• Roasted meats and vegetables

• Nutritional yeast

Understanding umami helps you to add layers of savory flavor that make dishes more satisfying and memorable. Also bonus points if it offers an opportunity to try new to you foods!