Mirin

Japanese mirin is a sweet rice wine used as a seasoning in Japanese cuisine. Made from glutinous rice, koji mold, and shochu (a distilled spirit), mirin has a syrupy consistency and a mild, sweet flavor with a subtle depth. It is an essential ingredient in many Japanese dishes, adding sweetness, gloss, and complexity to sauces, marinades, and broths.

Mirin is commonly used in dishes like teriyaki, sukiyaki, and tempura dipping sauces, as well as in miso soup and sushi rice. Its sweetness helps balance the salty flavors of soy sauce and enhances the overall umami profile of the dish.