key term - Umami

Definition

Umami is a taste sensation that is often described as savory or meaty. It is one of the five basic tastes, along with sweet, sour, salty, and bitter.

Related terms

Glutamate:

Glutamate is an amino acid that is responsible for the umami taste in food.

MSG (Monosodium glutamate): MSG is a flavor enhancer commonly used in cooking to intensify the umami taste in foods.

Taste buds: Taste buds are sensory organs on our tongues that detect different tastes, including umami.