Mirin (sweet cooking rice wine)

Mirin is a traditional Japanese seasoning used to add sweetness and umami to dishes. It is made mainly from rice and rice koji, and during fermentation saccharification progresses, producing an alcoholic liquid with a distinctive sweetness. In general, mirin is made by mixing glutinous rice (and koji) into shochu, sealing it, and letting it age for several months, which deepens its flavor. It is used in many Japanese simmered dishes, pickles, and teriyaki sauce, adding a gentle sweetness and richness to food. Although it contains alcohol, most of it evaporates during cooking, so it is a seasoning that can be used with confidence at home.