Glutamate is a molecule that many of us know about, but it’s often not fully understood. It actually plays a key role in the flavors we enjoy every day. You might have come across it while hearing about monosodium glutamate (MSG) or seen it mentioned in talks about umami, which is often called the “fifth taste.” So, what’s the deal with glutamate? What’s the deal with how it boosts food flavors, and why is it such a big deal in cooking?
In this blog, we’re going to explore the science of glutamate, how it plays a role in cooking, where you can find it in foods, and how it enhances our experience of flavor. We'll chat about the controversies around MSG and clear up some myths about it. By the end, you'll really get a good grasp of glutamate and pick up some handy tips for using it to create tasty, well-balanced dishes.