Monosodium Glutamate MSG

MSG has a wonderful ability to bring out the flavor in anything it is added to. The Japanese term "Umami" describes this earthy flavor enhancer.

Monosodium glutamate is a sodium salt of glutamic acid. It can be made from yeast or sugar beet molasses, or by fermenting special bacteria.

MSG has had some bad press due to possible allergic reactions, and we have made a concerted effort to remove it from most of our blends to make our clientele happy. However, MSG has the wonderful property of bringing out the flavor of foods to which it’s added. There are very few tricks in the kitchen as effective for intensifying the flavor of food as sprinkling in a little MSG. Thus, we do continue to make it available. If you are a fan of Pacific and Asian food – especially Chinese and Japanese – this is a familiar ingredient.

Cuisines and Categories

• Chinese and Far Eastern

Recipes with this Spice