Pixicook

Mirin vs White Wine

Mirin and White Wine are both cooking liquids used to enhance flavors in dishes, with Mirin being a sweet Japanese rice wine and White Wine a fermented grape juice that varies in taste and is used globally.

  1. What is Mirin?
  2. What is White Wine?
  3. Difference between Mirin and White Wine
  4. Recipes with Mirin
  5. Recipes with White Wine
  6. Mirin vs White Wine in Marinades
  7. Mirin vs White Wine in Glazes and Sauces
  8. Mirin vs White Wine in Desserts
  9. Substituting between Mirin and White Wine
  10. Nutritional Comparison
  11. FAQs
ingredient image

What is Mirin?

Mirin is a sweet Japanese rice wine, essential in many Japanese dishes. It has a lower alcohol content and a mild, sweet taste that complements soy sauce and other seasonings.

ingredient image

What is White Wine?

White Wine, made by fermenting the juice of white grapes, is used globally in cooking to add acidity and depth. Its flavor profile ranges from light and crisp to rich and full-bodied, depending on the variety.

Difference between Mirin and White Wine

Mirin boasts a sweet flavor with a syrupy texture, often used to balance savory dishes in Japanese cuisine. White Wine, in contrast, offers a range of flavors from tart to sweet, with a thinner consistency, and is used to deglaze, marinate, or enhance sauces in various cuisines.

apple
Easy & Awesome Recipes, Customized for You

Your ultimate Recipe Box, Meal Planner, and Cooking Class all in one

Mirin vs White Wine in Marinades

Ideal for Teriyaki and Yakitori, Mirin tenderizes proteins while adding a subtle sweetness. Use it in a 1:1 ratio with soy sauce for a classic Japanese marinade. Perfect for Chicken Piccata or Seafood dishes, White Wine's acidity tenderizes and adds complexity. Combine with herbs and garlic for a fragrant marinade.

Mirin vs White Wine in Glazes and Sauces

Use Mirin in a glaze for fish or in a Miso glaze for vegetables to provide a glossy finish and a sweet flavor without overpowering the dish. White Wine shines in Beurre Blanc or White Wine Sauces for pasta, offering a sharp, acidic counterpoint that enhances the overall dish.

Mirin vs White Wine in Desserts

Mirin can be drizzled over fresh fruit or ice cream for a light, sweet accent. Its subtle sweetness complements without overwhelming the dessert's flavors. White Wine poached pears or a Sabayon sauce are classic desserts where White Wine infuses delicate fruit flavors and a touch of elegance.

Substituting between Mirin and White Wine

You can substitute White Wine for Mirin by adding a pinch of sugar to mimic its sweetness, understanding it will introduce more acidity. Conversely, Mirin can replace White Wine by reducing the other sweet elements in the recipe to balance the dish.

Nutritional Comparison

Mirin is higher in sugar and has a lower alcohol content than most White Wines.

NutrientMirin ( per 100ml )White Wine ( per 100ml )
Sugars24g1g
Alcohol14g10g
Calories22482
Carbohydrates33g2.6g

Common Substitutes for Mirin and White Wine

FAQs

Can I use Mirin in place of White Wine for deglazing?

Yes, but be mindful that Mirin is sweeter and you may need to adjust the other sweet components in your dish.

Is Mirin non-alcoholic?

No, Mirin contains alcohol, although in lower amounts compared to White Wine.

Can I use White Wine in a Teriyaki sauce recipe?

Yes, but add a bit of sugar to approximate the sweetness of Mirin.

What type of White Wine is best for cooking?

Dry, crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio are versatile for cooking.

Does cooking with Mirin or White Wine affect the alcohol content?

Cooking can reduce the alcohol content, but some traces of alcohol may remain in the dish.