umami

yoo-MAH-mee

meaning in plain English

A rich, meaty or savory taste that makes food feel deeply satisfying, like in mushrooms, soy sauce, or aged cheese.

Think of a savory hug—umami is the tasty, meaty flavor that makes dishes feel like a comforting blanket.

for example

This bowl of ramen has so much umami from the broth and mushrooms that I could eat it every day.

Ever taken a bite of tomato sauce so good it makes you pause mid-chew, wondering why it tastes almost alive? That’s umami—like when mushrooms soak up soy sauce and suddenly taste like the heart of a meal, not just a side dish.