Love it or hate it, Marmite is a unique spread that has been around for over 100 years. Some people think it tastes like heaven, while others find it one of the vilest things they have ever tasted.
So what does Marmite taste like? It has a distinctive salty, strong flavor. Some describe the taste as slightly sweet. Others would say savory-bitter.
This comprehensive guide will explore their flavors and give you our take on this divisive condiment.
It is a sticky, thick paste with a distinctive taste of salty and strong flavor. Some describe the taste as slightly sweet. Others would say savory-bitter.
When you see it in action, it’s usually a tiny spoonful added to dishes or a thin layer spread over bread. It goes beyond salty, with umami-rich yeast and a hint of vegetable taste provided by the extracts.
Some people love it, and others hate it for its intense flavor. Its flavor is very much dependent on individual tastes and preferences.
As the slogan says, “love it or hate it.”
Sweet or sour?
It is a savory spread, so it is not sour. However, some might say that it has a slightly sweet taste.
Marmite on toast. Credit: canva
Sweet or salty?
Some people say they can taste a hint of sweetness, though. It is very salty. Some people say the saltiness is too much, while others find it just right.
Smell
Some say that it smells like soy sauce or beef broth. Others have described the scent as earthy or mushrooms.
Video People Try Marmite For The First Time
Texture
It is a very gloopy substance. It has a more burnt brown color and a more syrupy consistency, like honey, molasses, melted chocolate, or peanut butter.
It’s a smooth and spreadable condiment similar to jam on bread (though it doesn’t look, feel or taste like jam).
It has a similar feel to agave on toast in terms of texture. It’s sticky and likely to absorb.
Marmite on toast. Credit: canva
Acquired Taste
Yes. It is an acquired taste for some people. It can be pretty overwhelming at first because of its strong flavor.
If you’re not used to it, start with a tiny amount and gradually increase the amount you use as your tastebuds adjust.
Video American Try Marmite
Love or hate
Why do people love or hate it so much? It is one of those polarizing food items that people love or hate. There doesn’t seem to be any in-between. But why is that?
Many Britons find this inedible foodstuff hard to stomach. Some people cannot get past the intense salty taste on their tongue even if they have tried eating it repeatedly.
Others love the distinct taste and find that it enhances other foods.
People who enjoy this taste will add it to anything they can get their hands on since the flavor is so distinct – such as cheese sandwiches or scrambled eggs for breakfast.
It’s often used as a savory spread on toast or added to recipes for an extra flavor boost.
Whether you love or hate it, there’s no denying it’s a unique food item with a devoted following. If you’ve never tried it, why not give it a taste and see where you stand? Who knows, you might just become a convert!
Getting to Know
What is Marmite?
It is a British food that has been around since 1902 and is still as popular as ever.
It is a yeast extract spread invented by German chemist Justus von Liebig and was initially manufactured in the United Kingdom.
It is made from brewer’s yeast and contains added salt, sugar (taste enhancer), vegetable gum, Vitamin B, and some flavorings.
The components are spreadable to serve anything from breakfast toast to cheese lunches throughout the day at room temperature.
History
It was created in the late 1800s by German scientist Justus von Liebig. He found that brewer’s yeast may be concentrated, bottled, and consumed, which sparked him to invent what we know today as Marmite.
Bass Brewery supplied the yeast by-product needed for Marmite paste. By 1907, the product had become so popular that it necessitated the construction of a second factory at Camberwell Green in London.
The discovery of vitamins in 1912 helped it grow since the food is high in vitamin B complex, and beriberi was widespread during World War I, making it more popular. British troops had them during the First World War as their rations.
Marmite. Credit: canva
Health Benefits
It is rich in vitamin B. It includes thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), riboflavin (B2), folate (B9), and B12.
Some consumers have been concerned about the salt (sodium) content; however, it’s not the amount in bulk that matters, but the serving size.
Vitamin B12 raises the brain’s gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels. This chemical helps regulate excitability in neurons in your brain, and early research suggests that it might aid anxiety, ADHD, and Tourette’s syndrome symptoms. However, further study is still required.
It was made with yeast with a high concentration of glutamic acid. Glutamic acid is an amino acid used to form proteins. It affects your immune system, digestion, and brain health.
Small amounts may still be left in the product, even after washing.
Sandwiches with a bean’s marmite. Credit: canva
FAQs
What does Marmite taste good with?
They can be added to many different dishes to boost savory flavor. It goes well with eggs, potatoes, soup, and cheese.
What tastes better Vegemite or Marmite?
This is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the stronger flavor, while others find Vegemite more palatable.
How do you eat It?
It can be eaten in many different ways. Some people enjoy eating it straight from the jar, while others prefer to add it to toast, crackers, or recipes.
What is It made of?
It is made from yeast extract, a very concentrated savory flavor. It also contains vegetable extracts and spices.
How much do I put on toast?
A little bit goes a long way. Start with a thin layer and add more if desired.
Do I need to refrigerate?
No, It does not need to be refrigerated. Once opened, keep the lid tightly sealed to prevent it from drying out.
How long does It last?
It has a shelf life of 24 months. Once opened, it can be kept in the fridge for six months. If you will not use it all within that time frame, it’s best to keep it in the freezer.
Related Topics
Is Marmite the Same as Vegemite?
They appear to be nearly identical at first glance. However, some subtle variances may make one better match your taste buds than the other. It has a savory flavor with a hint of saltiness, whereas Vegemite has an umami flavor that resembles soy or fish sauce.
Why Do I Crave Marmite?
The expert explained that your body might crave foods high in iron. These cravings could be a sign that you need more vitamin B12. So please pay attention to them and ensure you get enough of this nutrient.
What Goes Well with Marmite on Toast?
It is a classic British breakfast, but finding the right toppings to pair with it can be challenging. Here are a few suggestions:
If you’re looking for something savory, try pairing it with cheese or bacon.
Add some honey or jam to your toast if you’re in the mood for something sweet.
Try topping it with avocado or salsa if you want a more exotic flavor combination.
I’ve never tried marmite, but I’m definitely going to have to try it now!