What Is Vegemite?

Vegemite is a distinct, dark brown spread from Australia, known for its intensely savory flavor and devoted following. While Australians swear by this unique condiment, its concentrated taste is an acquired one. With the right approach and an understanding of its character, you'll soon be able to enjoy it too.

What Exactly Is Vegemite?

Vegemite is a thick, salty paste with a dedicated fanbase, particularly in Australia. It’s used as both a spread and a seasoning for various savory foods. Made from the leftover yeast extract from beer brewing, it was originally created to make use of a byproduct that would otherwise go to waste.

The paste is made from yeast derived from barley and wheat, with added vegetable flavors like onion, carrot, and celery, along with seasonings. The inclusion of malt extract and B vitamins is key to its distinctive taste and health benefits.

What Does Vegemite Taste Like?

Vegemite offers a complex, savory flavor that’s packed with umami, almost reminiscent of a rich, meaty demi-glace or stock. This concentrated yeast extract delivers an intensely salty taste, similar to a bouillon paste. Its flavor is unique, with a slight bitterness that some find off-putting, but in small amounts, it can be surprisingly enjoyable. If you’re a fan of miso, you’ll probably appreciate the bold, salty tang of Vegemite.

Vegemite vs Marmite

While both Vegemite and Marmite are yeast-based spreads, there are key differences between the two. Marmite is more popular in Europe, especially in the U.K. The primary distinction is that Vegemite contains malt extract and additional seasonings that Marmite lacks.

The appearance and texture also vary. Vegemite is dark—almost black—and has a smooth, spreadable paste-like consistency. Marmite, on the other hand, is lighter in color, with a syrupy texture and a slight graininess. In terms of flavor, Vegemite carries a bit of bitterness that’s absent in Marmite, and many consider Vegemite’s taste to be more intense overall.

Where to Find Vegemite

If you're not in Australia, finding Vegemite can be a bit tricky. It's not commonly available in most grocery stores, though you may get lucky from time to time. However, if there’s an imported or specialty food store nearby, you might have better luck, especially if they stock other Australian products. Your best bet, though, is online retailers, where Vegemite is readily available from Australian specialty shops or platforms like Amazon.

How to Use Vegemite

The secret to enjoying Vegemite without overwhelming your taste buds is moderation. If you’re new to it, start by spreading a thin layer on buttered toast — this is a classic Australian breakfast or snack and a great introduction to its distinctive flavor.

For a more adventurous twist, try adding a light layer to your next grilled cheese sandwich. Once you’ve tasted it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed a grilled cheese without it!

Vegemite can be a flavorful addition to recipes, enhancing both saltiness and umami. It works wonders in pan sauces or as a secret ingredient in dressings, particularly those drizzled over meats. Vegemite also elevates roasted vegetables, especially hearty ones like cauliflower, carrots, and Brussels sprouts.

To use Vegemite in roasting, simply mix ¼ teaspoon into your olive oil and spices before tossing with veggies. Just be cautious with added salt, as Vegemite is already quite salty. It’s an excellent ingredient for adding depth to vegan and vegetarian dishes as well.