Umami emerged from Japan's culinary culture to become the fifth basic taste, and its star ingredients are attracting worldwide attention. A Japanese company expanded katsuobushi production to Spain, allowing the food to make its way onto menus across Europe. Kombu kelp is inspiring top chefs in New York. When rehydrated, dried shiitake mushrooms offer an umami-packed meaty texture loved by vegetarians. Discover more about a Japanese phenomenon that's taking the world by storm. (Reporter: Kailene Falls)

Maitake are popular mushrooms packed with aroma and umami. Their uniquely firm texture is perfect for tempura and stir-fried dishes. The development of cultivation technology has taken the once elusive variety from the depths of the wild to local shops, all year round and at affordable prices. Visit a mountain farm outside Tokyo to see how they're grown using natural spring water, then feed your appetite at a French restaurant specializing in mushroom dishes. (Reporter: Saskia Thoelen)