Mirin (Hon-Mirin)
What is it?
Sweet rice wine (14% alcohol) essential for authentic teriyaki glaze and simmered dishes. NOT the same as "mirin-like seasoning".
Substitution Guide
Dry Sherry (1 tbsp) + Sugar (0.5 tsp)
Mimics the alcohol content for reduction reactions and adds complex sweetness.
Rice Wine Vinegar (1 tsp) + Sugar (1 tbsp)
Provides sweetness and some acidity but lacks the alcohol for proper glazing reduction.
Mirin-fu Chomiryo (Mirin-like Seasoning)
Contains almost no alcohol (under 1%). Cannot create the reduction glaze reaction. Essentially sugar water with additives.
Did you know?
🔬Used as a drinking beverage in the Edo period (1603-1868). The sweetness comes from rice starch being broken down by koji enzymes into multiple sugar types during 40-60 day saccharification.
Sensory Profile
Complex sweetness with alcohol warmth. Golden amber color with slight viscosity.
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