INTERPRETING UMAMI

I don't know if this can be officially called "umami" but combining vanilla ice cream with Burnin' Beak Habanero Pepper Jelly is definitely an alluring and fascinating flavor combination.

The cold ice cream hits your hot tongue and starts to melt. Then, just as you begin to feel the cooling sensation, the marmalade gives a little tap to your taste buds saying wait, there's more.

As the flavors mingle and meld, your mouth and brain start to carry on a more interesting and complex conversation. With each bite, you feel as if you are caught in the middle of a compelling debate. Which side will be able to state their case best? Until the last bite, when you come to the conclusion that it's the unique combination of ingredients that gives this dessert, as Jon Rowley says, "the beautiful taste". 

For some interesting thoughts on umami, see his blog post The Beautiful Taste. Or follow Jon on Twitter @oysterwine.