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This week, the UK has been going barmy for Umami, in what looks
likely to be one of the most discussed food trends of 2010.
Described as the 'fifth taste sensation', Umami is that elusive
savoury flavour which adds a certain 'je ne sais quoi' to your food;
something you've been experiencing for years though in your trusty
bottle of Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce.
There are four well known basic tastes, sweet, sour, salty and bitter,
but over 100 years ago a Japanese scientist discovered another -
Umami. Literally translated, Umami means 'deliciousness' and the
scientists identified it as being responsible for adding an esoteric
deeper and richer flavour to savoury dishes.
Whilst the 'Umami Effect' has been a well-known phenomenon in Japan
for over a century, it has been a largely unrecognised concept
outside of the country. However, far from being a preserve of
Japanese cooking, there are examples of 'Umami' foods in every
culture around the world - Lea & Perrins Worcestershire Sauce
being a notable example in British cooking.
Lea & Perrins in particular is well-known for adding an extra
depth of flavour to dishes. You can experience the 'fifth taste
sensation' yourself, by adding the sauce to your favourite meals.
From cheese on toast and cottage pies to spag bols and stir fries,
simply using a splash of Lea & Perrins whilst cooking will ensure
your dishes have that sought after 'Umami Effect'.
The Lea & Perrins Story
"The sauce was first created by two Worcester chemists in the
1830s for the local aristocrat Lord Sandys, who was keen to recreate
the tastes he had experienced on his travels.
"When Lea & Perrins was first created, it wasn't to their
liking and was set aside and forgotten about. It wasn't until the
barrels were rediscovered many months later that the taste had
mellowed into what we know as Worcestershire Sauce.
"To this day, the sauce is still made to the original, secret
recipe and the ingredients are allowed to 'mature' for 18 months
before being blended and bottled for sale
The versatile nature and unique flavour of Lea & Perrins mean
that foodies and chefs 'in the know' regard it as being one of the
essential ingredients to have in their store cupboard |
