Kikkoman sauce

amazon Kikkoman sauce reviews

Starting from the bottles of soy sauce produced by the Mogi and Takanashi families, the Kikkoman soy sauce brand gradually formed and became famous. Kikkoman leads the Japanese market with a market share of 25%, is present in more than 100 countries, and is gradually asserting its leading position in the hearts of global consumers.

More than 300 years ago by the Edo River in Noda – a small city not far from Tokyo, the Japanese knew and used Kikkoman soy sauce thanks to its excellent taste and completely natural fermentation and brewing. First introduced at the World’s Fair in Vienna in 1873, Kikkoman soy sauce has conquered many cuisines around the world with many great awards and is considered a symbol of Japanese culinary culture. More honorably, Kikkoman has remained the sole supplier of soy sauce to the Japanese Imperial Family for many years.

Meaning of the name Kikkoman

The name Kikkoman was chosen by the founders for the product based on the story of the turtle in Japanese folklore. According to legend, turtles can live up to 10,000 years and are considered a symbol of longevity and long-term development – something any company wants. “Kikkoman” is a combination of “Kikko” which means turtle shell, and the word “man” which means 10,000, as a belief in the quality and sustainable development of this delicious and delicious soy sauce.

In 1917, more than 250 years since it was manufactured, the Mogi and Takanashi family merged to become Noda Shoyo Co., Ltd. In 1964, the company name changed to Kikkoman Shoyu and grew to become Kikkoman Corporation in 1980.

Although Kikkoman soy sauce is still mainly produced in Noda and is Kikkoman’s flagship product, the Kikkoman brand has grown stronger with a wide range of products, crossing the Edo River, adding more manufacturing plants in USA, Europe, Singapore, and Taiwan.

Believing that “flavors bring people together”, Kikkoman strives to promote global cultural exchange through education and student exchange programs such as Youth For Understanding for students, high school pupils, and AIESEC – an internship program for university students, enhancing international understanding. Every year, Kikkoman also contributes to popularizing Japanese cuisine through cooking classes for Japanese and foreigners.

Kikkoman’s family

In addition to the famous soy sauce, Kikkoman is also known for marinated spices, dipping sauces imbued with Asian cuisine.

– Dipping Seasoning Sauce has many different uses such as dipping or making directly on dishes or cooking. The sauce has a harmonious taste, delicious taste, and characteristic sweetness of soy sauce.

– Stir-Fry Sauce is a special stir-fry sauce for stir-fried dishes, combining delicious, salty, and sweet flavors, with a delicate and aromatic flavor from the garlic. The sauce is suitable for seasoning and easy stir-frying.

– Kikkoman marinade is specially blended with naturally fermented soy sauce, along with alcohol and various spices, suitable for grilled dishes.

Kikkoman flavor effect

Besides the rigorous production process applied for more than 300 years, Kikkoman flavor is the core factor of the brand’s success. When using Kikkoman soy sauce, users will feel a different taste on the tip of the tongue and the difference in processing specifications.

Kikkoman’s Commitment

As the world’s leading soy sauce brand, Kikkoman has been striving to develop Japanese culinary culture since the 1600s. Since the company’s founding in 1917, Kikkoman has had a management policy that harmonizes tradition and application using modern technology.

With the slogan “Promoting the exchange of world culinary cultures”, Kikkoman is dedicated to bringing Japanese culinary culture to the world.

Kikkoman is present in more than 100 countries, with 7 factories operating in the US, Asia, and Europe. Kikkoman is an Asian food distributor through a global business network, offering amazing Asian culinary experiences that meet the diverse culinary cultures of the world.

where can you get a Kikkoman sauce online

Kikkoman Ponzu Citrus Seasoned Dressing and Sauce, 15 Ounce: Buy it now

Kikkoman Ponzu Soy Sauce Food Service, Citrus,64 Ounce: Buy it now

Kikkoman Organic Soy Sauce, 25.40 Fluid Ounce: Buy it now

Kikkoman Orignal Takumi Colleciton Teriyaki Sauce, 20 Oz (Pack of 6): Buy it now

Kikkoman Smooth Aromatic Soy Sauce, 6.8 Fl Oz: Buy it now

Kikkoman International, Inc., Teriyaki Baste & Glaze, 11.80 OZ (Pack of 12): Buy it now

Production Process

Traditional Fermentation Method

Kikkoman soy sauce is renowned for its traditional fermentation process, which involves:

• Ingredient Selection: High-quality soybeans, wheat, salt, and water are carefully selected for their flavor and consistency.
• Fermentation: The ingredients undergo natural fermentation, facilitated by Kikkoman’s proprietary koji mold cultures and yeast. This process can take several months to develop the characteristic umami-rich flavor and aroma.

Aging and Maturation

After fermentation, the soy sauce undergoes aging in wooden barrels or tanks, allowing the flavors to mature and deepen over time. This meticulous process is crucial to achieving the balanced taste and aroma that define Kikkoman soy sauce.

Varieties and Uses

Soy Sauce Varieties

Kikkoman offers a range of soy sauce varieties tailored to different culinary applications:

• Regular Soy Sauce: Versatile for everyday cooking, marinades, and dipping.
• Less Sodium Soy Sauce: A lower-sodium option without compromising on flavor.
• Tamari Soy Sauce: Wheat-free and richer in flavor, ideal for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Ponzu Sauce: A citrus-infused soy sauce blend used as a dipping sauce or marinade.

Culinary Applications

Kikkoman sauce enhances a wide array of dishes across various cuisines:

• Japanese Cuisine: Used in sushi, sashimi, teriyaki, and tempura dishes.
• Asian Fusion: Incorporated into stir-fries, noodle dishes, and dipping sauces.
• Western Cuisine: Adds depth to marinades, dressings, and gravies.

Taste Profile and Quality

Umami Flavor Profile

Kikkoman soy sauce is celebrated for its umami-rich flavor profile, characterized by a harmonious balance of savory, salty, and slightly sweet notes. This distinctive taste enhances the overall depth and complexity of dishes, making it a preferred choice among chefs and home cooks alike.

Quality Assurance

Kikkoman maintains stringent quality control measures throughout its production process, ensuring consistency and excellence in every batch of soy sauce produced. From ingredient sourcing to final bottling, adherence to high standards underscores the brand’s commitment to delivering premium quality products.

Cultural Influence and Recognition

Culinary Icon

Kikkoman soy sauce has transcended its origins to become a global culinary icon, synonymous with authenticity and superior taste. Its widespread adoption in both professional kitchens and household pantries underscores its cultural significance and enduring popularity.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Value

Nutritional Composition

Kikkoman soy sauce offers nutritional benefits, including:

• Protein and Amino Acids: Provides essential nutrients necessary for overall health and well-being.
• Low Calorie: Typically low in calories, making it suitable for calorie-conscious diets when used in moderation.
• No Fat: Contains no fat, making it a healthy alternative to certain condiments and sauces.

Sodium Content

While soy sauce is naturally high in sodium, Kikkoman offers reduced-sodium options to accommodate dietary preferences and health considerations. These variants provide a lower-sodium alternative without compromising on taste or quality.

Consumer Feedback and Reviews

Positive Reception

Consumers appreciate Kikkoman sauce for several reasons:

• Authentic Flavor: Delivers an authentic Japanese taste experience that enhances a wide range of dishes.
• Versatility: Suitable for diverse culinary applications, from traditional Asian recipes to innovative fusion dishes.
• Quality Assurance: Consistently maintains high standards of quality and flavor, ensuring consumer satisfaction.

Criticisms and Considerations

Potential considerations include:

• Sodium Content: High sodium levels in traditional soy sauce may not align with dietary guidelines for some individuals.
• Availability: Certain specialized varieties may be less readily available in some regions, limiting consumer choice.

Conclusion

Kikkoman sauce, particularly its soy sauce, remains a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide, cherished for its authentic flavor, versatility, and culinary heritage. As a global leader in soy sauce production, Kikkoman continues to uphold its commitment to quality, innovation, and cultural appreciation, setting the standard for excellence in the condiment industry. Whether used in traditional Japanese cuisine or adapted for contemporary culinary trends, Kikkoman sauce exemplifies timeless craftsmanship and the art of flavor enhancement, enriching dining experiences across cultures and generations.