Mirin, a sweet rice wine for cooking, is made from glutinous rice. It is used as a seasoning and sweetener. During cooking, most of the alcohol evaporates, leaving a flavor and glaze that is distinctly Japanese. Mirin is available at all Japanese markets and in the Asian section of many supermarkets.

Paulette Mitchell, a culinary instructor, television personality, and the author of 10 cookbooks, is known internationally for her quick-to-prepare recipes with a gourmet flair. Her 15-Minute Gourmet cookbook series, including Chicken, Vegetarian, and Noodles, was awarded "Best Cookbook Series in the World" at the 2000 World Cookbook Fair in Périgueux, France in November, 2000. Her Complete Soy Cookbook was named "Best Health Cookbook" at the same event in 1998. To buy Paulette Mitchell's cookbooks, click here.