Byline Asmita Pant
Published By Priyanka Deshpande
CNBC-TV18.com
Published July 23, 2024
Umami, one of the five basic tastes, is often described as savory or meaty. It's found in foods like tomatoes, mushrooms, soy sauce, and aged cheeses, enhancing flavor depth. Here are some tips from Chef Ajay Chopra on enhancing umami in Indian dishes:
Use ripe tomatoes or tomato paste in your curries and gravies to add a rich, natural umami flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes are even better.
Add mushrooms like button or shiitake to your biryanis, pulaos, and curries. Dried mushrooms soaked in water also work wonders
These tangy ingredients are umami-rich and perfect for adding depth to sambars, rasams, and fish curries.
Use yogurt in marinades for meats and vegetables. It not only tenderizes but also adds a subtle umami flavor.
Brown onions slowly until they are deep and golden. This base enhances the umami in dishes like biryani, kormas, and rich curries.
Whole spices like cloves, star anise, and cinnamon can elevate the umami in your dishes. Toast them lightly before adding to your cooking.