For those of you who are not familiar with Vegemite, it is a spread made from yeast extract that is popular in Australia and New Zealand.
Vegemite has a powerful, pungent smell that can be hard to describe. Some say it smells like beef broth or Marmite, while others say it smells like soy sauce mixed with mushrooms.
No matter what you think it smells like, there is no doubt that Vegemite has a unique scent that is unmistakable.
What Does Vegemite Smell Like?
Description
It can be tough to describe if you’ve never had the pleasure (or displeasure) of smelling Vegemite.
Here are some descriptions that people make:
- Some say it smells like soy sauce mixed with mushrooms, while others say it smells more like beef jerky.
- Some say it smells like well-cooked beef broth or Marmite, while others say it smells like feet or cheese.
- Vegemite is also said to have a sulfur, meaty, chicken broth smell.
Why Does Vegemite Smell the Way It Does?
The answer lies in its ingredients. Vegemite is made from leftover brewer’s yeast extract, which gives it its characteristic umami flavor.
Umami is one of our tongue’s five basic taste receptors, and it’s often described as a “savory” or “meaty” flavor.
In addition to umami, Vegemite also contains high levels of glutamic acid, which is responsible for its strong odor.
About Vegemite
What Is Vegemite?
It is a dark brown Australian food made from leftover brewer’s salt, yeast extract, B vitamins, malt extract, and vegetable extract.
The primary ingredient used is yeast extract. It also contains various other vegetables and spice additives. It is free of sugar and fat, with no added synthetic flavor.
What Does It Taste Like?
Vegemite is very salty and savory. It doesn’t have a strong flavor, but it does have a very distinct taste. Some people compare it to soy sauce or beef broth. Others say it tastes like mushrooms or seaweed.
How to Enjoy Vegemite
If you’re new to Vegemite, spread a thin layer on toast. Be sure to spread it evenly, and avoid getting too close to the edges, or you’ll end up with a mess. If you’re not used to the taste, start with a small amount and work your way up.
Some enjoy mixing Vegemite with other spreads, such as peanut butter or Marmite.
You can add it to pasta, stews, or soup for an extra flavor boost.
Whatever way you choose to eat it, make sure you don’t go overboard – a little goes a long way!
FAQs
Why do Aussies love Vegemite?
Australians love Vegemite because it contains high levels of salt and has a strong, salty flavor that some people love and others find pretty strange.
Made from brewer’s yeast extract, Vegemite is high in thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B6. There’s no doubt that Vegemite is one of Australia’s most iconic foods!
What is the American equivalent of Vegemite?
There isn’t an American equivalent of Vegemite, as it’s a uniquely Australian product. However, some might say that black bean dip is a similar spread that can be enjoyed similarly on toast or crackers.
What is the smell of Marmite?
Marmite has a very strong and pungent smell with a slightly sweet and sour odor. Some people describe it as similar to cheese, while others say it smells like rotting vegetables.
No matter what it smells like to you, there’s no doubt it’s one of the most unique scents out there!