Umami is one of the five universal basic tastes. Found in ingredients and cuisines throughout the world, umami can be the secret to truly transcendent food.
Umami was discovered by Dr. Kikunae Ikeda, who thought there was a quality in Dashi different from the other four basic tastes (sweet, salty, bitter, sour).
Umami has a savory flavor that provides food with a richness and mouthfeel that coats the tongue. Umami is often described as mouthwatering, subtle, and pleasant.