Essential to the Japanese cook, mirin is a sweet, pale yellow cooking wine made from glutinous
rice. It's similar to
sake (another well-known rice wine), but lower in alcohol. Commonly used as a flavoring agent, mirin adds sweetness to a variety of dishes, sauces and glazes, particularly
yakitori,
teriyaki and
sukiyaki.
Mirin is sometimes simply referred to as rice wine.
Varieties and Buying Tips
Look for mirin at Japanese markets or in the gourmet section of some supermarkets. Because traditional mirin-making techniques are quite expensive and time-consuming, manufacturers have produced a variety of less expensive grades or substitutes. Mid-grades are your best bet for everyday cooking—be weary of the cheapest bottles, which are probably just mixtures of grain alcohol,
sugars and flavorings. True mirin (known as hon-mirin) can be more expensive than the best grades of sake.
A Little Bite of History
In the Edo period, mirin was imbibed as a sweet sake. Today, premium sake is drunk instead, but mirin is still the base of a ceremonial Shogatsu (Japanese New Year) drink. Called
otoso, the mirin-soaked mixture of
herbs is said to ensure good health and vitality.
Storage Tips
Keep refrigerated after opening.
Usage Tips
• Use mirin in small amounts—its flavor is quite strong.
• Quickly boil (called
nikiri mirin in the Kansai style of cooking) or use as-is.
• Sprinkle over broiled fish for a bright touch.
• Add to soups and noodles.
• Use as a
marinade for fish or meat.
• Whisk into savory dipping sauces for tempura or dressings for vegetables and salads.
• Use in place of
soy sauce, sugar and
honey in main dish recipes.
Try one of our favorite mirin recipes:Daikon and Carrot SaladBeef and Scallion Rolls (Nege Maki)Asian-Marinated Cocktail Drummettes