Their recent spice release is no different. The Mushroom and Company Multipurpose Umami Seasoning Blend is made from a divine mixture of kosher salt, dried porcini and white button mushrooms, dried onion, mustard seed, red and black pepper, and thyme. Once you taste it, you’re going to want to sprinkle it on everything, which is convenient considering how flexible its flavor profile is.
What Is Umami?
Umami is often referred to as the fifth taste (in addition to sweet, salty, sour, and bitter). It’s a Japanese term that translates to “pleasant savory taste,” and it’s really just that. Umami is the deliciously rich, meaty flavor you’ll get naturally from foods like parmesan cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, soy sauce, miso, and of course, mushrooms. And for those concerned about monosodium glutamate (MSG), fear not: Because Umami occurs naturally in mushrooms, Trader Joe’s has managed to capture its delicious essence without any additives.
Trader Joe’s Umami Blend Uses
Umami is as versatile as they come, and a hit of TJ’s magic mushroom blend will add a little “lift” to foods with zero added effort. Here are a few of our favorite ways to use it:
Sprinkle on top of this avocado toast. Pour it over popcorn as a lower-sodium swap for salt. Mix into homemade veggie burgers or inside the bun of one that’s pre-made. Use as a topper for roasted sweet potatoes. Sprinkle over grilled eggplant, or mix it into the marinade. Stir into the coating for Panko-crusted chicken tenders. Add on top of Nicoise salad or blend it into the dressing. Dash it over baked salmon with mushrooms before it goes in the oven.
If you’re looking for a Trader Joe’s nearby, you’re in luck: The chain has more than 550 locations nationwide and more stores opening this year.