Umami

A Japanese word, literally meaning ‘good flavour’. Umami foods are characterized as containing glutamates, a type of amino acid, and in English the taste is best described as ‘savoury’ or ‘meaty’. While this could be confusing, in that it’s quite close to saltiness, umami foods are most commonly meat-based, seafood-based or well fermented, such as cheese (Parmigiano is the strongest in umami), and cured (Parma ham, bacon, salamis etc.). Tinned anchovies, Marmite, oyster sauce, tomatoes and mushrooms are other examples of food high in umami, and in drinks, ale, wine and black tea are the highest.