What Is Sake?
What is sake? Uncover the captivating essence of this Japanese elixir, from its intriguing production techniques to its exquisite flavors.
Published: February 9, 2024 · Modified: March 4, 2024 by Jennifer Ryan

Table of Contents
- Understanding Sake Basics: A Japanese Elixir
- Rice Varieties and Polishing: The Heart of Sake Making
- Savoring the Complexity: Types of Sake
- What Does Sake Taste Like?
- How to Drink Sake
- What food pairs well with sake?
- Sushi and Sashimi
- Tempura
- Grilled Meats
- Cheese
- Light Appetizers
- Japanese Hot Pot (Nabe)
- Pickled Vegetables
- Miso Soup
- Japanese Dishes with Soy Sauce
- Fried Chicken (Karaage)
- Tips for Sake Beginners
Sake, the Japanese rice wine, is like a hidden gem blending tradition and sophistication in the world of beverages. I’ve delved into the unique qualities of this drink and want to share the basics with you. Let’s demystify sake, explore its interesting aspects, and enjoy the delightful flavors that make it stand out as a special and respected drink.
Understanding Sake Basics: A Japanese Elixir
Sake, pronounced sah-keh, is a traditional Japanese rice wine crafted from polished rice, water, yeast, and koji mold. The meticulous brewing process transforms these simple ingredients into a beverage that embodies the delicate artistry of Japanese craftsmanship. Contrary to popular belief, sake is not a distilled spirit but a fermented rice wine, offering a diverse spectrum of flavors, textures, and aromas.
Rice Varieties and Polishing: The Heart of Sake Making
The type of rice used plays a crucial role in shaping the character of sake. Premium sake often utilizes special rice varieties, such as Yamada Nishiki or Gohyakumangoku. The polishing, or milling, of the rice is another pivotal factor. The more the rice is polished, the more refined and elegant the sake becomes. Junmai and Honjozo are classifications that denote the percentage of rice polishing and whether additional alcohol is added during brewing.
Savoring the Complexity: Types of Sake
Navigating the world of sake introduces you to an array of styles. Junmai, Honjozo, Ginjo, and Daiginjo are broad categories, each with its own unique characteristics. Junmai, for instance, is known for its robust and full-bodied profile, while Ginjo and Daiginjo tend to be more aromatic and light. Honjozo strikes a harmonious balance, making it approachable for beginners.
What Does Sake Taste Like?
Well, it’s as diverse as the different types of sake out there. Junmai sake is full-bodied, Ginjo and Daiginjo are light and fruity, and Honjozo strikes a nice balance. Sake can be crisp and refreshing or rich and earthy, offering a range of flavors to suit different tastes. What makes sake extra special is its unique umami essence, coming from the rice a
How to Drink Sake
Appreciating sake goes beyond taste; it’s a cultural experience. Sake is traditionally served in small cups called ochoko or in larger flasks known as tokkuri. The temperature at which you enjoy it can enhance or diminish its flavors. Warm sake, or atsukan, can bring out richer, earthy notes, while chilled sake, or reishu, highlights its crisp and refreshing qualities.
What food pairs well with sake?
Pairing food with sake can be a delightful experience, as the diverse flavors of this Japanese rice wine complement a wide range of dishes. Here are some popular food pairings that work well with sake:
Sushi and Sashimi
Sake and sushi are a classic pairing. The clean and crisp characteristics of sake often enhance the delicate flavors of fresh sushi and sashimi.
Tempura
The light, crispy texture of tempura, whether it’s vegetables or seafood, pairs well with sake. The effervescence and acidity of some sake varieties cut through the richness of the fried batter.
Grilled Meats
Robust, grilled meats like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) or yakiniku (Japanese barbecue) can be complemented by the umami and depth of certain sake styles, such as Junmai or Honjozo.
Cheese
Sake can be surprisingly versatile with cheese. Try pairing a fruity and aromatic Ginjo sake with a creamy brie or a semi-hard cheese to experience contrasting but complementary flavors.
Light Appetizers
Sake’s clean and neutral profile makes it a great match for light appetizers such as edamame, tofu dishes, or salads. The sake won’t overpower these delicate flavors.
Japanese Hot Pot (Nabe)
Sake’s ability to cleanse the palate makes it an excellent choice for pairing with the rich broth and various ingredients found in Japanese hot pot dishes.
Pickled Vegetables
Sake’s acidity can harmonize with the tangy flavors of pickled vegetables. Consider pairing it with pickled radishes, cucumbers, or other traditional Japanese pickles (tsukemono).
Miso Soup
The savory and slightly salty notes of miso soup can be complemented by the gentle and nuanced flavors of sake. It’s a comforting pairing, especially in colder weather.
Japanese Dishes with Soy Sauce
Sake’s versatility makes it suitable for dishes with soy sauce-based flavors. Teriyaki dishes or anything with a soy-based glaze can be enhanced by a well-paired sake.
Fried Chicken (Karaage)
The crispy exterior and succulent interior of Japanese fried chicken pair wonderfully with the clean and refreshing qualities of sake.
Remember, personal preferences play a significant role in food and drink pairings. Experiment with different styles of sake to discover your favorite combinations, and don’t hesitate to try new pairings based on your own taste preferences.
Tips for Sake Beginners
For those stepping into the world of sake, start with a Junmai or a Honjozo to acquaint your palate with the fundamentals. Experiment with different temperature variations to discover your preferred serving style. Remember, sake tasting is a personal journey, and there’s no right or wrong way to enjoy it. Embrace the exploration, savor each sip, and let the subtleties of this Japanese elixir unfold.
As you embrace the diverse world of this Japanese rice wine, relishing its intricate flavors, let your curiosity guide you. For more delightful experiences, dive into our collection of sake-based cocktails, where traditional meets contemporary in a glass. You can also follow Love Food Feed on social media where we share lots of new recipes each week.