How to Drink Amazake: Hot or Cold & Can You Eat It Every Day?

Author: Joost Nusselder, author of The Essential Japanese meal planner cookbook Updated March 23, 2023

You might have seen the Japanese drink this fermented drink and wondered, can I just drink that at any time?

Amazake is a Japanese fermented rice drink. You don’t just drink it like water, but it’s traditionally drunk at the end of a meal. You have to savor the flavor and texture. First, you need to heat the amazake to get the natural enzymes to ferment.

So here are some tips on how to do just that.

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How to Enjoy Amazake: Tips and Tricks

• Amazake is traditionally made by fermenting rice with koji, a type of mold that breaks down the rice’s starches into glucose.
• While it’s possible to make amazake at home, it’s more convenient to buy it already prepared from a store or online.
• When preparing amazake, it’s important to know that it lacks the alcohol content of sake, making it a great alternative for those who prefer non-alcoholic drinks.
• To prepare amazake, simply pour the mixture into a medium saucepan and add water, soy sauce, or miso to taste.
• Heat the mixture on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot but not boiling.
• Adding ginger or marinated vegetables is a great idea to create a unique flavor.
• For a smoother texture, mix the amazake in an electric blender.

Adding to Amazake

• Amazake can be improved by adding other ingredients to it.
• For example, adding fresh fruit or vegetables can significantly increase the nutritional value of the drink.
• Adding a sweetener like honey or maple syrup can also improve the taste.
• Amazake can also be used as a substitute for milk or yogurt in recipes, making it a great alternative for those who are lactose intolerant.
• Knowing how to control the sweetness and texture of amazake allows for a unique and personalized experience.

Examples of Amazake Recipes

• Amazake smoothie: Blend amazake with fresh fruit and ice for a super refreshing drink.
• Amazake pudding: Mix amazake with gelatin and let it set in the fridge for a delicious dessert.
• Amazake sauce: Mix amazake with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for a traditional Japanese sauce that can be used on vegetables or meat.

Tips for Beginners

• If you’re new to amazake, start with smaller servings and gradually increase the amount as you get used to the taste.
• Amazake can be difficult to find in stores abroad, but it’s worth trying if you come across it in a Japanese restaurant or online.
• Expert amazake drinkers suggest trying different brands and types to find the one you prefer.
• Amazake is a convenient and easy drink to prepare, making it a great option for beginners.

Amazake: Hot or Cold?

In Japan, amazake is typically served hot, especially during the colder months of the year. Here’s how to make a hot bowl of amazake:

• Pour the amazake mixture into a large pot and bring it to a low heat.
• Stir the mixture regularly to maintain its quality and prevent it from burning.
• Add some ginger or other spices for a unique flavor.
• Once the mixture is hot, pour it into a bowl and serve.

Hot amazake has a slightly thicker consistency than cold amazake, making it perfect for a warm and comforting drink on a chilly day. Plus, the heat can help to release the natural enzymes in the rice, which can have additional health benefits.

The Differences Between Hot and Cold Amazake

While both hot and cold amazake contain the same basic ingredients (rice, water, and koji), there are some differences between the two:

• Hot amazake is usually made with white rice, while cold amazake can be made with a variety of different types of rice, including black, red, and even mixed rice.
• Hot amazake is typically sweeter than cold amazake, as the heat helps to break down the rice and release more natural sugars.
• Cold amazake has a more complex flavor profile than hot amazake, as the longer fermentation time allows for more natural enzymes to develop.
• Hot amazake is a traditional Japanese drink that has been served for centuries, while cold amazake is a more modern product that is often used as a natural sweetener or substitute for sugar.

No matter how you choose to enjoy your amazake, be sure to check the label to make sure you’re getting a high-quality, natural product that contains all the impressive health benefits of this traditional Japanese drink.

How Much Amazake Should You Consume Per Day?

Amazake is a traditional Japanese drink made from fermented rice or soy. It is a sweet and creamy beverage that is often served hot or cold. Amazake is a great source of energy and natural enzymes, making it an ideal drink for those who want to maintain their health and performance. Knowing the nutritional content of amazake is crucial in determining how much you should consume per day. Here are some of the benefits and nutritional content of amazake:

• Amazake is rich in glucose, which is a great source of energy for the body.
• It is a vegan drink that lacks any additives or preservatives, making it a healthier choice.
• Amazake is a good substitute for sugar and can significantly improve your glucose levels.
• It contains enzymes that aid in digestion and prevent the growth of mold in the body.

Factors to Consider When Choosing How Much Amazake to Consume

When it comes to consuming amazake, there are several factors to consider. Here are some of the things you need to keep in mind:

• Your energy needs: If you need more energy, you can consume more amazake.
• Your daily calorie intake: Amazake is a sweet drink, so you need to be mindful of your calorie intake.
• Your health condition: If you have diabetes or any other health condition, you need to consult your doctor before consuming amazake.
• Your purpose for consuming amazake: If you want to improve your digestion, you can consume more amazake.

How Much Amazake Should You Consume Per Day?

The amount of amazake you consume per day depends on your needs and preferences. Here are some examples:

• Beginners: If you are a beginner, start with a smaller amount of amazake, such as half a cup per day. You can gradually increase the amount as you get used to the taste.
• Lunchtime: If you want to consume amazake during lunchtime, a cup of amazake is a good choice.
• Performance: If you need more energy for your performance, you can consume up to two cups of amazake per day.
• Maintaining health: If you want to maintain your health, one cup of amazake per day is enough.

Is it Safe to Drink Amazake Every Day?

Drinking amazake every day can bring impressive benefits to your health and performance. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to consider adding it to your daily routine:

• Amazake is a natural and versatile drink that contains a unique mixture of rice, soy, and water.
• It is rich in glucose, which means it can provide you with a quick and convenient source of energy.
• Amazake is also low in fat and has a smooth and sweet taste that makes it a great substitute for regular sugary drinks.
• It contains a significant amount of vitamins and minerals that can improve your overall health and prevent certain diseases.
• Drinking amazake regularly can also help you improve your digestion, prevent fatigue, and boost your immune system.

How to Prepare Amazake for Daily Consumption

Preparing amazake is not difficult, and it can be a great way to add a little bit of variety to your daily routine. Here are some examples of how you can prepare and serve amazake:

• You can buy amazake products at your local store or prepare it yourself by mixing cooked rice, water, and koji (a type of mold) and letting it sit for a few hours.
• You can serve amazake hot or cold, depending on your preference.
• You can add some fresh ginger or other ingredients to create a unique and flavorful recipe.
• You can mix amazake with miso to create a special drink called “amazake-miso.”
• You can also use amazake as a sweetener in your cooking or as a marinated sauce for your meals.

Things to Keep in Mind When Drinking Amazake Every Day

While drinking amazake every day can be a good idea, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make sure you are doing it safely:

• Amazake contains a significant amount of glucose, so be careful not to consume too much if you are watching your sugar intake.
• Make sure you store amazake properly in a cool place to prevent it from going bad.
• Depending on the type of amazake you are drinking, it may lack some of the nutrients normally found in traditional amazake.
• If you are a beginner, start with smaller amounts of amazake to see how your body reacts to it.
• Fully dissolve amazake in water before consuming it to prevent any lumps from forming.
• It is safer to prepare amazake using an electric mixer to prevent any potential mold growth.
• Amazake is a staple drink in Japanese culture, and it has a long history dating back to the Edo period. It is said to have been a favorite of the famous Japanese poet Matsuo Basho.
• Drinking amazake every day is worth considering if you want to improve your health and performance, but make sure you do it in moderation and according to your own needs and preferences.

Is Amazake Popular in Japan?

Amazake has been a staple in Japanese cuisine since the beginning of the Edo period, dating back to the 17th century. It is a traditional sweet rice drink made from a mixture of steamed rice, water, and koji mold. Koji mold is also used in making miso and soy sauce. Amazake literally means “sweet sake” and is known for its rich, sweet flavor.

The Benefits of Amazake

Amazake is a natural sweetener that contains low sugar content and is rich in fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a wide range of dishes, including desserts, smoothies, and even as a substitute for sugar in baking. Some of the benefits of amazake include:

• Preventing fatigue
• Boosting the immune system
• Improving digestion
• Increasing energy levels
• Promoting healthy skin

Where to Find Amazake in Japan

Amazake is widely available in Japan and can be found in dedicated amazake shops or in supermarkets. It is also available in some Japanese restaurants and cafes. In the United States, amazake can be found in some Asian grocery stores or online. When buying amazake, be careful to read the ingredients to ensure that it is a natural and safe product.

In conclusion, amazake is a popular and versatile drink in Japan that offers a range of health benefits. Whether you want to try it as a substitute for sugar or as an additional ingredient in your cooking, amazake is a great way to add some sweetness to your day.

Conclusion

Amazake is something you can enjoy every day, the Japanese do it as you’ve seen!

It’s not as difficult to make as it seems, and it’s a great way to get some extra energy and nutrients into your diet. Plus, it’s delicious!

Check out our new cookbook

Bitemybun's family recipes with complete meal planner and recipe guide.

Try it out for free with Kindle Unlimited:

Read for free

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Bite My Bun is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with Japanese food at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.