Umami is one of the five basic tastes that also includes sweet, sour, bitter, and salty. It means the “essence of deliciousness” in Japanese. Umami's savoriness creates a deep, satisfying flavor that enhances vegetarian broths, soups, stews and sauces. Tomatoes, mushrooms, cheeses, and soy sauce are probably a few of the the most used ingredients to pump up the umami.