Mirin Substitutes – 5 Sweet Rice Wine Alternatives
The best substitute for mirin is Rice Vinegar + Sugar at a 1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp mirin ratio. It works best for sushi rice, dipping sauces, dressings. There are 4 other alternatives below, each with exact ratios and usage notes.
Best Substitute
Rice Vinegar + Sugar
1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp mirin
The most common non-alcoholic substitute. Mix well to dissolve sugar. Captures the sweet-tangy balance of mirin.
What are the other substitutes for mirin?
Dry Sherry
1 tbsp dry sherry + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp mirin
Provides similar depth and complexity as mirin. Add a touch of sugar since sherry is drier. The classic Western substitute.
Sweet Marsala Wine
1 tbsp mirin = 1 tbsp sweet Marsala
An Italian sweet wine with similar sweetness and depth. May lend a slightly different flavor but works well in Asian-inspired cooking.
Sake + Sugar
1 tbsp mirin = 1 tbsp sake + 1 tsp sugar
Sake is a closer flavor match to mirin than other wines. The added sugar mimics mirin's characteristic sweetness.
White Grape Juice
1 tbsp mirin = 1 tbsp white grape juice + splash of rice vinegar
A non-alcoholic option with natural sweetness. Add a tiny splash of rice vinegar for acidity and complexity.
What should you know before substituting mirin?
Hon mirin is authentic mirin with about 14% alcohol. Mirin-style seasoning (aji-mirin) has less alcohol but added corn syrup. For best results, use hon mirin. Mirin adds a beautiful glaze to grilled and broiled foods due to its sugar content.
How do you substitute mirin in a recipe?
A sweet Japanese rice wine with low alcohol content, used in teriyaki, glazes, sushi rice seasoning, and as a flavor balancer in Japanese cooking.
The best substitute for mirin depends on what role it plays in your recipe. Our top recommendation is Rice Vinegar + Sugar (1 tbsp rice vinegar + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp mirin), which works well for sushi rice, dipping sauces, dressings.
If you need a different option, Dry Sherry (1 tbsp dry sherry + 1/2 tsp sugar per 1 tbsp mirin) is another reliable choice. Provides similar depth and complexity as mirin. Add a touch of sugar since sherry is drier. The classic Western substitute.
When substituting mirin, consider the flavor profile, texture, and cooking method of your recipe. For vegan alternatives, look for the options marked with the vegan badge above.
Substitution ratios verified against USDA FoodData Central and FoodSafety.gov. See our testing methodology for details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest mirin substitute?
Mix 1 tablespoon rice vinegar with 1/2 teaspoon sugar. This non-alcoholic substitute captures mirin's sweet-tangy balance and works in any recipe calling for mirin.
Can I use rice vinegar instead of mirin?
Rice vinegar alone is too tart-mirin is sweet, not sour. Add 1/2 teaspoon sugar per tablespoon of rice vinegar to approximate mirin's flavor balance.
Is mirin the same as rice wine vinegar?
No. Mirin is a sweet rice wine used for cooking with about 14% alcohol. Rice wine vinegar is a vinegar (no alcohol) with a sharp, tangy flavor. They serve different purposes in cooking.