umami
Say it: oo-MAH-mee /uːˈmɑːmi/ · noun
What “umami” means
The rich, savoury taste found in broth, cheese and mushrooms.
More precisely: A savoury, rich taste, as in broth, parmesan, mushrooms and soy sauce.
Example: “A splash of fish sauce adds umami to almost any stir-fry.”
When to use it
Use it when discussing the deep savoury taste of food, especially cooking or tasting. It is a standard food term.
Similar words
savouriness, savoury taste
Where it comes from
Japanese, 'delicious taste'; named by the chemist Kikunae Ikeda in 1908.
Quick check
A mushroom broth tastes deeply savoury even though it isn't particularly salty, sweet or sour. Which taste stands out?
umami or bitterness?
Show the answer
umami
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