What is the difference between sake lees and rice koji? A guide to the types of amazake and how to choose them

When the cold season comes, you suddenly want to drink "amazake." But did you know that there are actually two main types of amazake, depending on the ingredients? In this article, we'll explain the differences between "sake lees" and "rice koji," the characteristics of amazake made from each, and how to choose the amazake that's right for you.

The origins of amazake lie here: sake lees and rice koji

First of all, you need to know the ingredients of amazake.

• Amazake made from sake lees
  

• Amazake made from rice koji
  
  

Let's take a look at the differences between them.

● What is sake lees amazake?

Sake lees are a soft, white fermented food that remains after the sake has been pressed. Sake lees amazake is made by adding sugar and water to the lees and boiling them.

It has a slight alcoholic aroma and a rich flavor. It is rich in protein, dietary fiber, and B vitamins. However, because it contains trace amounts of alcohol, please be careful around children and before driving.

● What is rice koji amazake?

On the other hand, rice koji is made by adding koji mold to steamed rice and fermenting it. Rice koji amazake is made using only this rice koji and water to bring out the natural sweetness.

It's non-alcoholic and sugar-free, yet still quite sweet. It's gentle on the body and popular among those who are health and beauty conscious. It's so well-balanced that it's even been called a "drinkable IV drip."

How to Choose Amazake

So, what should you pay attention to when choosing amazake? If you're unsure how to choose amazake, try using the following criteria as a reference.

● Choose by purpose

• If you're looking for something to drink... We recommend rice koji amazake, which is non-alcoholic and sugar-free. It's the perfect morning habit.
  
  

• For cooking... The rich flavor of sake kasu amazake adds depth to dishes. It's also great added to miso soup or stew.
  
  

● Choose from health perspectives

• If you're on a diet, try rice koji amazake, which has no added sugar.
  

• For beauty purposes, sake kasu amazake, rich in B vitamins, is also an option.
  
  

● Choose according to the occasion

• For entertaining or as a gift: Bottled craft amazake and carefully crafted products from fermented food specialty stores are well received.
  

• As a snack for children: Enjoy warmed rice koji amazake with its gentle sweetness.
  
  

lastly

Once you understand the unique characteristics of sake lees and rice koji, you will be able to enjoy amazake in even more ways.

Take a look at the differences between sake lees and rice koji and choose a cup that suits your tastes and lifestyle.

Why not try incorporating the benefits of fermentation, which are good for both your mind and body, into your daily life?