Koji Amazake （麹甘酒）Sweet, Non-Alcoholic Fermented Rice Drink Packed with Gut Health Benefits
- Hitomi
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
Updated: Sep 8
A creamy, dairy-free fermented drink made from rice and rice koji. Naturally sweet with no added sugar, it’s a traditional Japanese superfood perfect for gut health.
CONTENTS
GUT HEALTH BENEFITS OF KOJI AMAZAKE |
Rich in natural enzymes and glucose from fermentation
Supports healthy digestion, immunity, and energy
Naturally dairy-free and low in fat
A great alternative to sugary drinks
Gluten-Free / Vegan / No added Sugar
INGREDIENTS | (Makes about 600ml)
400g White or Brown Porridge
100g Dried Rice Koji
100ml Warm Water (~60°C / 140°F)
INSTRUCTIONS:
Sterilize your tools: Place all utensils and containers in boiling water for at least 8 minutes. Use only heat-resistant, BPA-free glass or plastic. Let air dry completely. Learn how to sterilize tools
Make Porridge:
Soak 0.5 cup of rinsed rice for at least 30 minutes.
Add the drained rice in 700ml water and boil uncovered.
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer for about 25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
After 25 minutes, turn off the heat, cover and let it steam for 5 minutes.
Allow the porridge to cool to below 60°C (140°F).
In a sanitized container, mix the porridge rice, rice koji, and water.
Ferment at 55–60°C (131–140°F) for 6-8 hours using a fermentor or rice cooker with a warm setting.
Blend if a smoother texture is desired.
Cool and Store: Let it cool, then transfer to a clean jar. Store in the fridge up to 7 days.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS |
Enjoy warm or chilled as a nourishing drink
Recommended serving size: 1/2 cup - 1 cup a day
Use as a natural sweetener in yogurt, smoothies or oatmeal
Great for children and elderly as a gentle energy boost
SHOPPING TIPS |
RICE KOJI:
Look for dried rice koji at Japanese or Asian grocery stores in the refrigerated section or online. Brands like Cold Mountain, Marukome, or Hikari are reliable. Japanese supermarkets often carry a few different kinds of KOJI. Online retailers like Nijiya, Mitsuwa, Marukai, Amazon, or Japanese Pantry shops are good options!
FINAL THOUGHTS |
Koji Amazake is the perfect introduction to fermented Japanese drinks—gently sweet, full of natural goodness, and incredibly easy to make at home. A beautiful way to nourish your gut and body, one sip at a time.
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