03 Mirin

Mirin is a sweetened, fortified rice wine that’s used for cooking and as a primary seasoning in Japanese cuisine. It has a subtle sweetness compared to sugar. It is made from glutinous rice, kome koji (a fermented rice) and brewed alcohol. Mirin that has been made traditionally includes no additional sugar. However, there are ‘mirin-style seasonings’ available that are made with additional sugar and a lower percentage of alcohol. These are usually much sweeter than traditional mirin.