1The brand name of an umami seasoning product made by Ajinomoto Co., Inc., whose main ingredient is monosodium glutamate (MSG). Widely used in Japanese home cooking and restaurants, the brand name has effectively become a generic term for MSG-type seasonings. In everyday speech, phrases like 味の素を振る (to sprinkle Ajinomoto) refer to the seasoning itself.
炒め物の仕上げに味の素を少し振ると、うま味が引き立つ。
A small sprinkle of Ajinomoto at the end of a stir-fry brings out the umami.
味の素は少量でも味が変わるので、入れすぎに注意。
Ajinomoto changes the flavor even in small amounts, so be careful not to add too much.
祖母は昔から味の素を料理の隠し味に使っている。
My grandmother has always used Ajinomoto as a secret ingredient in her cooking.
うちでは味の素を切らさないように常備している。
We always keep Ajinomoto on hand at home so we never run out.