Savor the Sublime: An Exercise in Tasting and Feeling

Room: Information Commons Room 7, 1st Floor

In this session, participants will explore the fundamentals of taste through a brief introduction followed by a guided blind tasting. With their eyes covered, they will sample 4-5 carefully prepared items, focusing on the key elements of flavor—saltiness, sweetness, acidity, bitterness, and umami—as well as variations in texture and aroma.

This exercise aims to deepen awareness of the vast sensory information we absorb while eating. By using familiar ingredients in unexpected ways, the session challenges perceptions and enhances the overall tasting experience.

Beyond simple flavor recognition, this experience encourages an intuitive, immersive exploration of food, highlighting how texture and aroma influence and transform the perception of flavor.

Naama Levit is a chef and artist originally from Israel, currently residing and working in Brooklyn, NY. Her culinary journey began as a line cook in restaurants throughout Jerusalem. Since then, Naama has explored various roles in restaurants and culinary projects, transitioning into positions as a test kitchen chef and project manager at food startups. Now, Naama works independently as a chef and educator, continually
exploring and expanding her skills around ingredients, cooking techniques, and culinary traditions. Naama brings a unique perspective to her work as a chef, expanding the experience with her inventive approach and artistic sensibility.