Umami/Savory

Last on the list, and last to be discovered, is umami, or savory, taste. Derived from the Japanese word meaning “delicious taste,” I describe umami as meaty, hearty, and filling. This taste is believed to help us regulate the amount of protein we consume, and is a taste classically found in fish sauce, most meats, soy sauce, and more. Umami/savory taste is my absolute favorite of the five (for obvious reasons)—it makes a good dish great when used properly. Adding soy sauce to a marinade can elevate the other tastes to another level. You’ll find this is true, too, with broths, cheeses, mushrooms, and steaks—their umami tastes elevate foods to that next umami level. Umami makes everything better, period.