The Forktionary Angle
"Beyond the bottle: Discover sake's sophisticated role in both Japanese cuisine and refined drinking culture."
Definition
A Japanese alcoholic beverage made by fermenting rice that has been polished to remove the bran. It ranges from dry to sweet.
Flavor Profile
The primary flavor notes for Sake are:
Chef’s Secret
Use a good quality sake (not cooking sake) for marinades or glazes where its flavor will shine, as lower quality can have off-notes.
Best Substitutes
Dry Sherry
Mirin
Buying Guide
For cooking, 'cooking sake' is fine. For drinking, explore different grades (junmai, ginjo, daiginjo).