mirin: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Culinary
Quick answer
What does “mirin” mean?
A sweet, syrupy Japanese rice wine used primarily as a seasoning and glazing agent in cooking.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A sweet, syrupy Japanese rice wine used primarily as a seasoning and glazing agent in cooking.
A specific culinary ingredient essential to many Japanese dishes, known for its mild sweetness and ability to add gloss and depth of flavour.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in usage. The word is borrowed directly into both dialects for the same culinary concept.
Connotations
Evokes Japanese cuisine, authenticity, and specific flavour profiles in both cultures.
Frequency
Frequency is low and context-dependent (food writing, cooking shows, recipes). It may be slightly more frequent in the US due to broader exposure to Japanese culinary terms.
Grammar
How to Use “mirin” in a Sentence
[Verb] + mirin + [Noun] (e.g., *glaze the chicken with mirin*)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “mirin” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- a mirin-based glaze
- the mirin flavour
American English
- a mirin-based sauce
- a mirin glaze
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in contexts of food import/export, restaurant supply, or culinary tourism.
Academic
Found in papers on food science, culinary history, or East Asian studies.
Everyday
Used when discussing cooking, following recipes, or shopping for specific ingredients.
Technical
Standard term in professional culinary texts, recipe books, and gastronomy.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “mirin”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “mirin”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “mirin”
- Pronouncing it as 'MY-rin' or 'mee-REEN'.
- Confusing it with 'sake' (which is drier and often drunk).
- Using it as a direct 1:1 substitute for sugar or vinegar without recipe adjustment.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A common substitute is a mix of dry sherry or white wine with a small amount of sugar, though it won't replicate the flavour perfectly.
'Hon mirin' is traditionally brewed and contains about 14% alcohol. 'Aji-mirin' (taste-mirin) is a seasoned, lower-alcohol product made for cooking, often with added syrups or salt.
Yes, traditionally brewed mirin contains alcohol (around 14%), though much of it evaporates during cooking. Non-alcoholic versions are available.
After opening, it should be stored in a cool, dark place or refrigerated to maintain its quality, and used within a few months.
A sweet, syrupy Japanese rice wine used primarily as a seasoning and glazing agent in cooking.
Mirin is usually technical/culinary in register.
Mirin: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmɪə.rɪn/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmɪr.ɪn/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: "MIRIN adds a sheen" or "MIRIN makes it glisten." Rhymes with 'within' – essential *within* many Japanese sauces.
Conceptual Metaphor
LIQUID SWEETENER (like a syrupy, culinary honey).
Practice
Quiz
What is mirin primarily used for?