What is Rice Wine?

Rice wine, or glutinous rice wine, known as Mijiu in Chinese, is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the fermentation of rice. Unlike the western style wines made from grapes, which is produced by fermenting sugars present in fruits, rice wine is made from rice grains that are converted into sugars. This age-old process gives birth to a variety of wines that are rich in culture and taste, embodying the essence of Asian culinary traditions.

The Origins

Rice wine has a history that spans thousands of years, deeply rooted in the cultures of East Asia. Among the different types of cooking wines, particularly Mijiu, holds a significant place. The most popular one you may have heard of is Shaoxing Wine. Chinese rice wines are slightly different by region, just like wines are different by country and region. 

Culinary Uses of Rice Wine

It is a versatile ingredient in the kitchen. It's commonly used in marinades, sauces, and soups to enhance flavor without adding the sharpness of alcohol. In fact, we add glutinous rice wine to many recipes as it's a natural taste enhancer.