Oils, Wines and Vinegars

Asian cooking oils like sesame oil and other infused oils add aroma, heat and depth to stir‑fries, dressings, noodle dishes and more. Sesame oil is often used as a finishing flavour, while chili oil is great for spicy sauces or toppings.

Rice wines (like Shaoxing cooking wine) and vinegars (such as rice vinegar) are used to balance and deepen flavours in sauces, marinades, braises, and salad dressings. Rice wine adds richness and aroma, while vinegar brings bright acidity to dishes like sushi rice and dipping sauces.

Mirin is a sweet rice wine frequently used in Japanese cooking. It has a lower alcohol content than sake and a higher sugar content, giving it a sweet flavour. Mirin is commonly used to add extra depth and sweetness to sauces, soups, glazes. It commonly found in Japanese dishes like teriyaki or stir-fries.

Rice wine, such as sake or Shaoxing wine, is made by fermenting rice. It has a higher alcohol content than mirin and is often used in cooking to tenderise meat, add flavour to broths, or as a base for marinades. It’s a versatile ingredient found in both Japanese and Chinese cuisines.

Rice vinegar is a mild, slightly sweet vinegar made from fermented rice, often used for sushi rice, dressings, and sauces to add a gentle tang.

Sesame oil is a fragrant, nutty oil extracted from sesame seeds. In Asian cuisine, it’s often used as a finishing oil rather than for cooking at high temperatures. Its rich flavour enhances stir-fries, soups, salads, and marinades, adding a warm, toasty aroma and depth to dishes.

Yes — all oils, wines and vinegars are sourced from trusted Asian brands, selected for genuine flavour and high quality.

Mirin and Rice Wine: Store in a cool, dry place. If they are cooking varieties, they can be stored at room temperature; otherwise, refrigeration is recommended.

Rice Vinegar: Keep in a cool, dry place. Once opened, it can be stored at room temperature or in the fridge to prolong its freshness.

Sesame Oil: Store in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it’s best to refrigerate it to maintain freshness.

Yes, mirin, rice wine, rice vinegar, and sesame oil are all plant-based and suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. However, some mirin products may include added ingredients, so check the label if you have dietary concerns.