Mirin

Japanese sweet cooking rice wine Condiment

Mirin Condiment

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment

The Forktionary Angle

"The Japanese Culinary Secret"

Definition

A sweet Japanese rice wine, essential for adding a subtle sweetness and glaze to dishes, used in marinades, sauces, and glazes.

Science Fact Typically contains 10-14% alcohol by volume, along with a high sugar content.
Storage Tip Store in a cool, dark place, preferably refrigerated after opening to maintain quality.
Usage Tip Essential for balancing saltiness and adding a beautiful sheen to Japanese dishes.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Mirin are:

Sweet Umami Slightly Tangy

Chef’s Secret

Reduce mirin by itself slightly before adding to a sauce; this concentrates its sweetness and creates a richer glaze.

Best Substitutes

Sake + 1 tsp sugar

sake:sugar
Ratio 3:1

Dry sherry + 1 tsp sugar

sherry:sugar
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for 'hon mirin' (true mirin) for authentic flavor; 'aji-mirin' is a mirin-like condiment.

Recipes Using Mirin

Taste Mood Preparation Main Ingredient Asian

10 Min Japanese Simmered Tofu Hot Pot

Cozy up with this incredibly quick and flavorful Japanese tofu hot pot! Perfect for busy weeknights or chilly evenings, this recipe skips the traditional dashi broth for a simplified yet authentic taste. Enjoy the comforting warmth of homemade Japanese food in just 10 minutes! Ideal for fall and winter.

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Grains Low In Something Inexpensive Preparation

Amber's Japan Style Tofu Meal

A quick and healthy weeknight meal inspired by recipe #171417! This vibrant Japan-style tofu dish is packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make. Enjoy a delicious and nutritious supper in under 40 minutes – perfect for busy weeknights! Get ready for a taste of Japan in your own kitchen!

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Pork Meat Pork Main Ingredient

Asian Inspired Pulled Pork Shoulder For Tacos Or Sliders

Craving incredible, melt-in-your-mouth pulled pork? This slow cooker recipe delivers Asian-fusion flavor in a fraction of the time! Inspired by classic char siu, but with a unique twist, this recipe transforms a pork shoulder into tender, juicy perfection. Perfect for tacos, sliders, or enjoying on its own! Easy, delicious, and ready in just under 8 hours.

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Occasion Occasion Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less

Asian Vinaigrette

Experience the vibrant flavors of Asia with this quick and easy Asian Vinaigrette recipe! Perfect for salads, spring rolls, or as a marinade, this recipe from Paderno's website bursts with fresh ginger, garlic, and a zesty lime. Elevate your dishes with this authentic and delicious dressing in just minutes!

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Asian Meat Main Ingredient Cuisine

Authentic Japanese Gyoza

Craving authentic Japanese gyoza? This recipe, straight from Japan, delivers the most incredible homemade dumplings you'll ever taste! Get ready to get your hands dirty and create restaurant-quality gyoza from the comfort of your kitchen. Don't miss this incredibly flavorful and satisfying recipe – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend project.

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Time To Make Cuisine Carrots Asian

Banh Mi Vietnamese Sandwiches Bnh Mi

Experience the taste of Vietnam with this incredible Banh Mi recipe! These homemade sandwiches rival the best from any Vietnamese shop. Using sourdough bread adds a delightful tang, and leftover Asian-flavored meats are perfectly welcome. Create a flavorful masterpiece with quick-pickled veggies and perfectly grilled protein. Get ready for an explosion of fresh herbs, crunchy textures, and savory deliciousness in every bite!

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Main Ingredient Asian Meat Vegetables

Beef Stir Fry Asian Style

This quick and easy Asian-style beef stir-fry recipe is a family favorite! Learn how to achieve perfectly tender beef slices by freezing the meat beforehand. Inspired by Annette Sym's recipe (featured on Channel Nine's Extra), this tweaked version is packed with flavor and ready in under 40 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe is guaranteed to impress even the pickiest eaters. Impress your family with restaurant-quality beef stir-fry tonight!

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Main Dish Steaks Number Of Servings Occasion

Beef Teriyaki With Cucumber Salsa

This vibrant and healthy Beef Teriyaki recipe is a quick and easy weeknight dinner, perfect for satisfying your red meat cravings without the guilt! Lean flank steak marinates in a flavorful teriyaki sauce, then cooks to perfection. The refreshing cucumber salsa, made with crisp cucumbers, bell peppers, and a tangy sweet-and-sour dressing, adds a delightful contrast. Prepare the salsa ahead of time for effortless assembly. Bethany's family-friendly version makes this dish adaptable for any occasion! #beefteriyaki #cucumber #salsa #healthyrecipes #quickdinner #easyrecipe #flank steak #asiancuisine

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60 Minutes Or Less Cuisine Meat Time To Make

Beef Yakiniku

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this incredibly flavorful Beef Yakiniku! This easy-to-follow recipe uses thinly sliced sukiyaki beef (easily found at Asian markets) and a savory sauce featuring sake and white wine for an unforgettable taste. Ready in under 40 minutes, it's the perfect balance of speed and deliciousness. Serve over fluffy steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

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