Ever stared blankly at a crossword clue, feeling utterly stumped? Then, suddenly, a single word unlocks the whole puzzle? Sometimes that word is “umami,” the savory taste sensation often linked to MSG. But what exactly is that elusive flavor, and why does it pop up so frequently in the New York Times crossword?
The taste imparted by MSG, the magic behind umami, is more than just a culinary concept; it’s a cultural phenomenon, even in the world of puzzles! It’s that savory depth that makes a broth richer, a tomato sauce more complex, and, yes, even a crossword clue a bit more solvable. Let’s delve into why this taste is so crossword-worthy.