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Mirin is a Japanese cooking essential. Much likemisoorJapanese mayo, it can be used in a variety of ways. So, what exactly is this slightly sweet, golden-hued liquid? Here’s what you need to know, including how it’s made, where to find it and how to use it.
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What is mirin?
What’s the difference between mirin and sake?
Though mirin and sake are similar, there are two main differences: “Mirin has a lower alcohol content and the addition of sugar, where sake doesn’t have added sugar and is generally higher in alcohol,” saysCharles Namba, a Los Angeles-based chef and owner of Ototo and Tsubaki. During mirin’s fermentation process, complex carbohydrates form, making the mirin sweet.
What’s the difference between mirin and rice vinegar?
Mirin is a rice wine, not to be confused with a rice vinegar, so don’t accidentally switch the two in your next recipe. “While both mirin and Japanese rice wine vinegar share the same origin—rice— that’s where the similarities end,” Namba says. “Mirin adds sweetness and a really nice shine to foods, where vinegar adds acidity.”
You might even find rice wine and rice vinegar near each other in thegrocery store, but they bring different flavors to your cooking. Rice vinegar does have some sweetness to it, but has been fermented longer and is acidic.
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What are the different types of mirin?
There are a couple of varieties of mirin to look out for when shopping:
How to use mirin
Mirin is often used when preparingramen, but can also be used to bring a touch of sweetness toroasted bok choy,spicy salmonand side dishes likegomae. And, as we’ve discussed, it’s key toteriyaki-style dishes. But don’t limit yourself! Mirin is also key to homemade eel sauce, which doesn’t actually contain eel (it’s mirin, sugar, soy sauce and sake), and is a great drizzle overyour favorite sushi.
Where to buy mirin
Mirin can be found in the condiment section of Japanese markets. It’s typically packaged in a clear glass or plastic bottle. Mirin can also be easily found online and at many grocery chains. Pick up a bottle or two and try it inSoy-Glazed Sweet PotatoesorSoy Sauce Eggs. Or, choose your favorite protein and make your ownTeriyaki Marinade.
What can I use instead of mirin?
If you can’t find mirin, don’t stress too much! Namba uses cooking sake and sugar if he’s out of mirin, he says, “which is essentially what mirin is.” Try adding about half a teaspoon of sugar into an equal amount of sake. But if you’re without cooking sake or sake at home, he says, “You can substitute a dry white wine or even dry vermouth, although it will change the flavor slightly.”
Bottom line
Mirin is a mildly sweet Japanese rice wine with a variety of uses. It is somewhat similar to sake but generally less expensive, sweeter and with a lower alcohol content. Because of the sugar in mirin, it works well in a glaze, as in this deliciousGlazed Salmon with Garlic Spinachdish. There are two main types of mirin, hon and aji. Stock your pantry with both and start cooking.
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