Mirin FAQ
Here, we answer common questions about how to use mirin, how to store it, and when to add it during cooking.
Plus, we will introduce some unique ways to use mirin in sweet treats!
Although mirin is an essential Japanese seasoning, many people might not fully understand how to use and store it properly.
This webpage answers common questions about mirin, including its uses and storage tips. We hope to help you rediscover the many appeals of mirin, and inspire you to expand your culinary repertoire.
How should I use mirin?
The timing of when you add mirin is very important.
If you simmer ingredients for too long after adding mirin, they can become tough, so it's crucial to add it at the right moment.
Adding Mirin:
Timing Tips for Each Dish
- Simmered Fish
- First bring the mirin, dashi and soy sauce to a boil, then add the fish.
- Simmered Vegetables
- Simmer the vegetables first, then add mirin and soy sauce. For a lustrous-glaze finish, swirl in mirin at the end, bring the dish to a quick boil, and then turn off the heat.
- Teriyaki and Kinpira
(Braised) Dishes - First, sauté the ingredients, then coat with mirin and soy sauce and simmer until lustrously glazed.
The color of the mirin has become darker. Is it still fine to use?
This is a phenomenon called the Maillard reaction, which has no impact on the quality or cooking effectiveness of mirin.
Mirin contains sweetness (sugar) and umami components (amino acids.) These components react over time and with changes in temperature, causing its color to darken.
How should mirin be stored?
Even after opening, store in a cool and dark place away from direct sunlight.
Mirin is resistant to spoilage due to its high sugar and alcohol content. Refrigerator storage can cause the sugar to crystallize.
Can mirin be used past its best-before date?
We recommend using it up as soon as possible.
It poses no health risks if unopened, but the color, aroma, flavor, and other qualities will deteriorate over time. Therefore, we recommend using it up as soon as possible.
I ran out of mirin in the middle of cooking.
Can other seasonings be substituted for mirin?
Alcoholic beverages and sweet seasonings seasonings can be used.
Although they do not provide the exact same cooking effects as mirin, alcoholic beverages and sweet seasonings are often used as substitutes. For example, cooking sake and sugar. Adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Mirin has a high alcohol content.
Is it safe for children and people sensitive to alcohol?
Alcohol evaporates
when heated during the cooking process
Alcohol evaporates when heated during the cooking process, but it does not completely disappear. Small children and those sensitive to alcohol should consume mirin with caution.
Please share any unique and creative ways to use mirin.
Mirin can also be used to make sweet treats!
How about confectionary delights that highlight the natural sweetness and rich taste of mirin? This traditional seasoning is surprisingly versatile in sweet treats. For example, pancakes. Mirin can be added to batter for extra fluffiness and boiled down to prepare flavorful syrup. Please note that some mirin-style and fermented mirin-type seasonings contain salt and are not suitable for these uses.
