Tag: Umami boosters

Over 100 years ago, Japanese scientist Kikunae Ikeda first identified umami, the savory fifth taste. This distinctive flavor is what makes many dishes so deeply satisfying and can be achieved with ingredients that naturally mimic MSG, or monosodium glutamate, which is its manufactured salt form. Understanding these natural glutamate sources allows home cooks to replicate that rich, savory profile in their dishes naturally.

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is the purest form of the savory taste known as umami, according to Japanese chemist Kikunae Ikeda, who first identified it in 1908. While some people wish to avoid MSG for personal or dietary reasons, many potent, natural ingredients can serve as an excellent dupe for MSG to provide that sought-after flavor boost.

While the FDA has categorized MSG as generally recognized as safe (GRAS), many people choose to avoid this flavor enhancer, leading to questions about alternatives. Discover **what is a turkey gravy without MSG** and how to create a rich, savory sauce using wholesome, naturally flavorful ingredients.