Just what is Umami? Not long ago it was believed that the human tongue could only detect four basic flavors: sweet, salty, sour and bitter. Recently, a fifth flavor has been added, Umami. This is the meaty, mouth-filling flavor that you taste when you eat foods that are rich with naturally occurring glutamates. Some Umami rich foods are anchovies, prosciutto, Parmesan cheese, mushrooms, balsamic vinegar and stock. These ingredients also amplify the flavors of the foods cooked or served with them. Monosodium glutamate (MSG), isolated from seaweed by Japanese scientists, is a well-known flavor enhancer, albeit controversial, and the ultimate example of Umami.
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