What Is Japanese Mirin And How Is It Used In Cooking?

Considered as an essential condiment in Japanese cuisine, Mirin is a type of rice wine which is similar to sake(more info) but with a lower alcohol content. It is rich in sugar which is composed of a complex carbohydrate that forms during the natural fermentation process.

There are different types depending on the alcohol content. This is achieved by further heating allowing the base alcohol to evaporate and deriving at a specific alcohol content. Considered as the true mirin, Hon-Mirin contains 14% alcohol and is being produced from 40 days of processing through constant mashing called sac-charifi-cation.

Called as the new style, Shin-Mirin has less than 1% alcohol content but has the same sweet taste with the Hon-Mirin. There is even a type of mirin where the alcohol content is intentionally lowered to avoid taxation on alcoholic drinks called the Shio-Mirin.

^{by SMcGarnigle - Miso and Mirin Marinated sauce on Salmon}

Regional Uses

The use of mirin in Japanese cooking can vary depending on the region or prefecture as they call it. In Kansai, mirin is briefly boiled before being used to allow further evaporation of the alcohol leaving a rich sugary taste. On the other hand, it can also be used untreated or as a raw additive material in dishes especially in the Kanto regional style of cooking.

In general, this rice wine has flavors of sweetness making it a good contrast when being used with salty sauces. For example, mirin goes best when mixed with soy sauce where it will add a layer thickness and a nice golden color.

Heighten the Flavors of Dishes

Not just as a condiment, it can also become a main ingredient for other condiments like teriyaki sauce. It can also be used to bring up the flavor soups like miso. Mirin is also used to add a bright touch to grilled or boiled fish while hiding or masking the fishy smell. With this, it comes best when you are eating sashimi or sushi.

^{by Star112}

On top of these traditional usage of mirin in Japanese cuisine, new age Japanese have their own version on how to use mirin. A perfect and popular example of this is making a dipping sauce that is made up of sesame seed oil, rice vinegar, soy sauce and mirin, that when mixed, goes perfectly with frozen dumplings.

You just have to remember one thing when you use mirin: it should not be used in excess, either as a marinating ingredient, finishing medium or just for making sauces since its flavor is quite strong.

National Day?

Due to the popularity by both old and new aged Japanese, the mirin industry of Japan has designated November 30 of each year as the Day of Hon Mirin. Festivals around Japan prepare their unique and traditional dishes that has been added or inspired by this popular alcoholic Japanese condiment.