If you do not have umami paste and pomegranate molasses in your pantry, GO get them. Umami paste is a savory condiment every kitchen should have stocked. Umami, by definition, is one of the five categories of taste (along with sweet, sour, salt +bitter). Pomegranate molasses is a sweet, but tart syrup often used in Middle Eastern cuisine. It adds a rich, exotic, intense flavor to any dish and pairs beautifully with the savory umami and mild eggplant in this recipe.
