Bragðbætir

A bragðbætir is an Icelandic term that translates literally to "taste improver" or "flavor enhancer." It refers to a substance or mixture added to food or beverages to enhance, modify, or intensify their existing flavors. Bragðbætir can encompass a wide range of ingredients, from natural spices and herbs to commercially produced flavor compounds.

In Icelandic cuisine, the concept of bragðbætir is applied broadly. This includes the use of common seasonings like salt and pepper, as well as more specific ingredients. For example, dried fish flakes or fish oil might be used to add a distinct savory or umami note to certain dishes. Fermented ingredients, such as skyr or fermented shark (hákarl), can also be considered bragðbætir in that they contribute unique and strong flavors that define the character of the food.

Commercially produced flavor enhancers, such as monosodium glutamate (MSG), are also used globally and can be found in some processed foods available in Iceland. The purpose of any bragðbætir is to make the final product more appealing to the palate, either by boosting desirable tastes, masking undesirable ones, or creating a more complex flavor profile. The specific types of bragðbætir used often reflect cultural preferences and traditional culinary practices.