Aji Mirin vs. Mirin — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on January 30, 2024
Aji Mirin is a sweet rice wine used in cooking, similar to Mirin (Traditional Japanese sweet rice wine) but with added sugar and salt, often used as a more accessible substitute.
Difference Between Aji Mirin and Mirin
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Mirin is a traditional Japanese sweet rice wine, used as a cooking ingredient. It lends a mild sweetness and sheen to dishes. Aji Mirin, on the other hand, is a type of mirin-style seasoning. It is similar in flavor to true Mirin but contains additional sweeteners and often a small amount of salt.
True Mirin, also known as "hon mirin," is made from fermented rice, rice koji (a fermentation starter), and distilled alcohol. It is aged over several months. Aji Mirin, while mirroring the sweet profile of Mirin, often contains less alcohol and more additives, making it a more affordable and readily available option.
In cooking, Mirin is used to add depth and balance to the umami flavor in Japanese dishes. Aji Mirin, due to its similar taste profile, can be used as a substitute in recipes calling for Mirin, although it may impart a slightly different flavor due to its added sweeteners.
The alcohol content in traditional Mirin is higher, which helps in melding flavors and removing unwanted odors from food. Aji Mirin typically has a lower alcohol content and a slightly stronger sweetness, which may alter the taste balance slightly in recipes.
Mirin is valued in Japanese cuisine for its role in creating authentic flavors and is considered indispensable in many traditional dishes. Aji Mirin serves as a more accessible alternative for home cooks outside of Japan or in situations where true Mirin is not available.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Ingredients
Rice wine with added sweeteners and salt
Fermented rice, rice koji, and alcohol
Alcohol Content
Generally lower
Higher
Use in Cooking
Substitute for Mirin
Traditional ingredient for depth and umami
Sweetness
Slightly stronger sweetness
Balanced, mild sweetness
Availability
More accessible, especially outside Japan
Authentic ingredient, may be less available
Compare with Definitions
Aji Mirin
A sweet rice wine used in cooking.
She added aji mirin to the sauce for sweetness.
Mirin
Used to add depth and balance to dishes.
Mirin was added to the marinade for depth.
Aji Mirin
Often used as a substitute for Mirin.
Aji mirin was used instead of traditional mirin in the recipe.
Mirin
Made from fermented rice.
The umami flavor in the dish was enhanced by mirin.
Aji Mirin
Lower alcohol content than Mirin.
Aji mirin is preferred in recipes where less alcohol is desired.
Mirin
Indispensable in many traditional Japanese dishes.
True mirin brings authenticity to Japanese cuisine.
Aji Mirin
Contains added sugar and salt.
Aji mirin's added sugar enhances the dish's flavor.
Mirin
Traditional Japanese sweet rice wine.
Mirin is essential in authentic Japanese cooking.
Aji Mirin
More accessible outside Japan.
Aji mirin is readily available in local grocery stores.
Mirin
Higher alcohol content.
The alcohol in mirin helps to meld the flavors.
Mirin
A sweet Japanese rice wine used especially in cooking.
Mirin
A form of Japanese rice wine, less alcoholic than sake and used in cooking.
Common Curiosities
What are the key differences in ingredients between Aji Mirin and Mirin?
Aji Mirin has added sweeteners and salt, while Mirin is made from fermented rice.
What is the main use of Mirin in cooking?
To add sweetness and depth to Japanese dishes.
Can Aji Mirin be used as a direct substitute for Mirin?
Yes, but it may slightly alter the flavor profile.
Is Mirin alcoholic?
Yes, it contains a higher alcohol content than Aji Mirin.
Is Mirin used in sweet or savory dishes?
It is used primarily in savory dishes.
Is Mirin suitable for use in marinades?
Absolutely, it's commonly used in marinades.
Can I find Aji Mirin in a regular supermarket?
Yes, it's widely available in many supermarkets.
Why might someone choose Aji Mirin over Mirin?
Due to its accessibility and lower alcohol content.
What is Aji Mirin?
A sweet cooking rice wine with added sugar and salt.
Does Mirin need to be refrigerated after opening?
Yes, to preserve its flavor.
Can I use Aji Mirin in all recipes calling for Mirin?
Generally, yes, but expect a slightly sweeter taste.
Are there any non-alcoholic substitutes for Mirin?
Non-alcoholic mirin or sweetened rice vinegar can be used as substitutes.
Is Aji Mirin less expensive than Mirin?
Typically, yes, due to its additional ingredients.
How long can Mirin be stored?
It can last several months when stored properly.
Does Aji Mirin enhance the umami flavor like Mirin?
Yes, though the added sweetness might be more pronounced.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
NM3 vs. M3
Next Comparison
SEO vs. SMOAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
