Satisfy Your Cravings with These 18 Savory Umami Recipes
When it comes to cooking, there are few flavors as irresistible as umami. Often referred to as the “fifth taste,” umami is a savory, meaty flavor that can elevate even the most basic dishes into culinary masterpieces. From rich and comforting risottos to bold and spicy stir-fries, umami has a way of adding depth and complexity to any meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory umami recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, meat, or plant-based options, we’ve got you covered with a range of mouthwatering dishes that incorporate the umami flavor profile. From classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional recipes, these savory umami dishes are sure to become new favorites.
Miso Glazed Salmon with Sesame Seeds
A flavorful and savory recipe that combines the richness of miso paste with the nutty taste of sesame seeds, perfectly glazed on top of succulent salmon fillets.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp white miso paste
– 1 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, and ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the glazed salmon.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salmon and sesame seeds.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Umami-Rich Mushroom Risotto with Parmesan
Savor the deep flavors of this creamy risotto, where earthy mushrooms and nutty Parmesan come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to the rice mixture; stir until absorbed. Repeat, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments, stirring until absorbed.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the risotto should be creamy and tender. Remove from heat.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese; season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Soy-Glazed Chicken Thighs
Elevate your dinner game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of soy sauce with the sweetness of honey. This dish is perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a shallow baking dish and brush the soy glaze evenly over both sides of the chicken.
4. Drizzle the vegetable oil over the chicken and sprinkle with salt to taste.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the glaze is caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Umami Sauce
Elevate your seafood game with this decadent yet easy-to-make Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe, featuring a rich and savory Umami Sauce. This mouthwatering dish is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Umami Sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Add shrimp to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Place shrimp on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, heat Umami Sauce according to package instructions (if using store-bought).
7. Serve shrimp hot with warmed Umami Sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tomato and Anchovy Pasta with Olive Oil
This classic Italian recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the salty tanginess of anchovies, all on a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 6-8 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add anchovy fillets and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3-4 minutes or until dissolved.
3. Add diced tomatoes to the skillet and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes or until they release their juices and start to break down.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato and anchovy mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Soy-Marinated Beef Stir-Fry with Vegetables
This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy-marinated beef with a colorful medley of vegetables, all cooked to perfection in a wok. A quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil for wok
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vegetable oil, and sesame oil (if using). Add beef strips; marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat a non-stick wok or large skillet over high heat. Remove beef from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
3. Add beef to the wok and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from wok; set aside.
4. In same wok, add onion and garlic. Cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Add bell pepper and broccoli to the wok. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
6. Return beef to the wok; stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Umami-Packed Vegan Lentil Stew
This hearty stew is a perfect blend of comforting flavors, with the savory umami taste of mushrooms and soy sauce taking center stage. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a nutritious meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, soy sauce, tomato paste, and bay leaf.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice with Egg
This spicy kimchi fried rice dish combines the bold flavors of Korean kimchi with the comfort of a fluffy egg, all wrapped up in a savory and slightly sweet package.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 eggs
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Pour in the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
3. Push the rice to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs into the rice.
5. Add the kimchi, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes to the rice mixture. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Miso Soup with Tofu and Seaweed
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Japanese-inspired Miso Soup, packed with protein-rich tofu and nutty seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup white miso paste
– 1/2 cup cubed firm tofu
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 sheet of dried wakame seaweed, torn into bite-sized pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth and miso paste. Whisk until smooth.
2. Add tofu, sesame oil, onion, and garlic. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and add seaweed. Cook for 5 minutes or until seaweed is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Teriyaki Glazed Portobello Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with these tender and flavorful portobello mushrooms smothered in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or as an impressive appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 4 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, and vegetable oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the mushrooms.
4. Place the mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Umami-Infused Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
A rich and savory stir-fry that combines the deep flavors of umami with tender beef and crisp broccoli. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp umami seasoning blend
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add broccoli and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, umami seasoning blend, sugar, and water.
5. Add the beef back into the pan and pour in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Parmesan Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and nutty Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
3. Meanwhile, place the garlic cloves on a separate baking sheet, drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until caramelized and soft.
4. Remove both potatoes and garlic from the oven. Mash the roasted potatoes in a large bowl using a potato masher or a fork. Add the roasted garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Savory Soy-Glazed Eggplant with Scallions
Elevate your summer cooking with this flavorful and healthy eggplant recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish. This savory soy-glazed eggplant is a twist on traditional Asian-inspired dishes, featuring the sweet and crunchy combination of scallions.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium-sized eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 4 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
3. Brush both sides of the eggplant slices with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Place the eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle the soy-glaze over the eggplant, making sure each slice is coated.
6. Top each eggplant slice with a few slices of scallion.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the eggplant is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Umami-Rich Ramen with Soft-Boiled Egg
Discover the rich flavors of Japan’s iconic noodle dish, elevated by a velvety soft-boiled egg and an umami-packed broth.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups chicken or pork bone broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (Japanese rice wine)
– 1 tablespoon mirin (sweet Japanese cooking wine)
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 8 ounces ramen noodles
– 2 soft-boiled eggs, peeled and halved
– Sesame seeds, chopped scallions, and pickled ginger for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine broth, soy sauce, sake, mirin, and ginger. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Crack the eggs into the simmering broth. Cook for 6-7 minutes or until the whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
4. Divide noodles among bowls. Ladle in hot broth and top with a soft-boiled egg half, garnished with sesame seeds, scallions, and pickled ginger.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Umami Chicken Skewers with Peanut Sauce
Elevate your grilling game with these savory chicken skewers, smothered in a rich and creamy peanut sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sake (or dry white wine)
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup creamy natural yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sake, honey, ginger, and chicken pieces. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine peanut butter and yogurt in a blender or food processor. Add garlic and blend until smooth.
6. Serve grilled chicken skewers with peanut sauce spooned over the top. Enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Savory Stir-Fried Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms
Savory Stir-Fried Noodles with Shiitake Mushrooms: A flavorful and aromatic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the umami taste of shiitake mushrooms with the springiness of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. soba or rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed shiitake mushrooms (stemmed and sliced)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; stir-fry until mushrooms release their liquid and start browning (about 4-5 minutes).
3. Add cooked noodles, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for another minute.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Umami-Packed Vegan Cauliflower Steak
Elevate your plant-based game with this rich and savory vegan cauliflower steak recipe, packed with umami flavor from a combination of soy sauce, miso paste, and nutritional yeast.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cauliflower
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon miso paste
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the cauliflower and remove the leaves and stem.
3. Cut the cauliflower into thick slabs, about 1-inch thick.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, miso paste, garlic, and nutritional yeast.
5. Brush both sides of each cauliflower slab with the umami mixture.
6. Place the cauliflower steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Umami Chili with Black Beans
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavors of umami-rich mushrooms and soy sauce with the spiciness of jalapeños, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of black beans. A perfect blend of warm and spicy, this chili is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup black beans, cooked and drained
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 jalapeños, diced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, mushrooms, bell pepper, and jalapeños; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add black beans, diced tomatoes, and 1 cup water; bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let chili cook for 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with these 18 savory umami recipes! From seafood to meat, and even vegan options, this collection has something for everyone. Savor the rich flavors of miso glazed salmon, umami-rich mushroom risotto, and soy-glazed chicken thighs. Indulge in garlic butter shrimp, tomato and anchovy pasta, or spicy kimchi fried rice. Explore international flavors with soy-marinated beef stir-fry, umami-packed vegan lentil stew, and more. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to elevate your cooking game, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
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