What is Umami ？

Have You Heard of “Umami”?

The word Umami might sound familiar — it's the “secret of deliciousness” that has captured the attention of chefs and food lovers worldwide. Originating from Japan's Dashi culture, Umami is now recognized across the globe as something far beyond just sweet or salty.

In this article, we'll dive into the mysterious, fascinating taste of Umami and discover why it's become known as the fifth basic taste.

The Essence of Japanese Umami: Dashi

“Umami” – The Fifth Basic Taste

The journey of umami began in 1908, when Japanese scientist Dr. Kikunae Ikeda discovered the flavor compound glutamate in kombu (kelp) broth. He named this taste Umami, meaning “delicious essence.”

Decades of research later, umami was officially recognized as one of the five basic tastes—alongside Sweet, Sour, salty, and Bitter. Isn't it fascinating that a concept born in Japanese food culture has now become a global culinary language?

5 Basic Taste

So, What Does Umami Actually Taste Like?

Unlike sugar's sweetness or salt's sharp edge, umami is harder to describe. I like to think of it as the foundation of flavor—the taste that gives depth, harmony, and satisfaction to a dish.

Some ways to capture it in words:

• Mellow and Lingering – Umami doesn't hit you instantly. Instead, it gently spreads across your palate and leaves a pleasant, savory aftertaste.

  
  

• Adds Richness and Body – It doesn't overwhelm, but when combined with other flavors, it makes the entire dish feel fuller and more complete.

  
  

In Japan, Umami is most clearly experienced in dashi—a broth made from kombu (kelp) , bonito flakes, or shiitake mushrooms. Even without heavy seasoning, a sip of dashi delivers warmth, depth, and comfort.

But Umami isn't exclusive to Japanese cuisine. Tomatoes, Parmesan cheese, mushrooms, aged meats, soy sauce… the list goes on. Chances are, you're already enjoying Umami every day without even realizing it.

Discovering Umami in Everyday Foods

Discover Umami in Your Everyday Meals

Think of Umami as the quiet hero of taste—the gentle note that ties a dish together and makes you crave just one more bite. Next time you sit down for a meal, see if you can spot that subtle richness. Chances are, Umami is right there, waiting to be noticed.