Kitchen Culture
How Koji Fermentation Works: The Enzymatic Science Behind Miso, Soy Sauce, and Sake
Koji fermentation relies on the mold Aspergillus oryzae to break down starches into sugars and proteins into amino acids, creating sweetness and umami that form the flavor foundation for miso, soy sauce, sake, and other fermented foods.
Raffi Hovsepian·October 26, 2026