What makes food delicious?

I’ve had more time to #read and catch up on my favorite #documentaries on Netflix. After having my daughter Jillian, I gave up on trying to watch television. Due to unfortunate circumstances that we are all facing, I have had more down time to enjoy the little things in life. One documentary that has truly inspired me was called SALT, FAT, ACID, HEAT. I absolutely love food documentaries and learning about #food #culture. Chef and food writer Samin Nosrat takes you on a #journey around the world to discover what makes food #delicious! The four elements salt, fat, acid and heat, when incorporated correctly in a dish, is what makes food delicious. I give this documentary 4 stars, not only was it informative but Chef Samin is pretty awesome and so down to earth!

I noticed a common term used in many of the food documentaries that I watched. That unfamiliar term was “umami”. Intrigued by its usage pertaining to food, I had to do my research. So here we go.... put on your reading glasses folks!

I read an article written in The New Yorker called “You think you know umami” by Hannah Goldfield. Describe the term #umami and it’s meaning pertaining to the food world. Umami is one of the fifth basic senses alongside of #sweet, #sour, #salty and bitter; umami can be described as #savory. The word umami derives from the Japene word Umai; translating to “deliciousness”. It can be described as a flavor enhancer adding depth and harmony to the #ingredients creating a well rounded dish, an innovation to taste. What was once negatively associated with MSG commonly found in Chinese food, Umami has been respectively celebrated by many and now takes one on a harmonious flavorful journey!

My #homemade #buddhabowl of #chicken marinated in a bulgogi sauce paired #kimchi, pickled radish, roasted carrots and sesame brown rice....the basic elements salt, fat, acid and heat. I love a dish where there is texture and options to help create that perfect bite!