Microwave Perilla Leaf Casserole
Microwave Perilla Leaf Casserole
An Amazing Side Dish for Life! Perilla Leaves Steamed in the Microwave
Introducing a magical perilla leaf casserole recipe that’s ready in just 2 minutes and 30 seconds using only the microwave. This dish is the ultimate rice thief, guaranteed to make you finish a whole bowl of rice! Once you taste it, you’ll never forget it!
Perilla Leaf Casserole Ingredients- 5 bundles of fresh perilla leaves (approx. 50 leaves)
- 10g dried anchovies for stir-frying (head and guts removed)
- 1 section of the white part of a leek (approx. 5cm long)
- 1 Cheongyang pepper
- 1/2 red chili pepper
Seasoning Ingredients- 4 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1/2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds
- 1 Tbsp Perilla Oil
- 3 Tbsp Water
- 4 Tbsp Soy Sauce
- 1/2 Tbsp Sugar
- 1 Tbsp Gochugaru (Korean chili powder)
- 1/2 Tbsp Minced Garlic
- A pinch of Toasted Sesame Seeds
- 1 Tbsp Perilla Oil
- 3 Tbsp Water
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the perilla leaves thoroughly under running water. After washing, completely pat them dry with paper towels to prevent them from becoming soggy during the steaming process, ensuring a clean finish. Prepare the dried anchovies by either using ones with the heads and hard guts already removed, or by removing them yourself. This step helps reduce any bitterness from the anchovies.
Step 2
Cut the white part of the leek into sections about 5cm long, and mince them very finely. It’s important to finely mince the leek so its mild spiciness and aroma blend well into the seasoning.
Step 3
Remove the seeds from the Cheongyang pepper and red chili pepper, then mince them very finely, just like the leek. The spiciness of the Cheongyang pepper and the slight sweetness of the red chili pepper will enhance the overall flavor of the perilla leaf casserole.
Step 4
In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients: 4 Tbsp soy sauce, 1/2 Tbsp sugar, 1 Tbsp gochugaru, 1/2 Tbsp minced garlic, a pinch of toasted sesame seeds, 1 Tbsp perilla oil, and 3 Tbsp water. Mix these ingredients well with a spoon to create a delicious seasoning sauce. Having the sauce pre-mixed makes it easier to spread evenly over the perilla leaves.
Step 5
Now, prepare a microwave-safe heatproof dish. Spread the prepared dried anchovies evenly at the bottom of the dish. Place 3 to 4 perilla leaves on top, then brush a thin layer of the prepared seasoning sauce over them. Repeat this layering process, brushing sauce on each layer, until all the perilla leaves are used up. The alternating layers of perilla leaves and sauce will create a deep, rich flavor.
Step 6
Cover the perilla leaf casserole dish with a lid or plastic wrap, and place it in the microwave. Heat for approximately 2 minutes and 30 seconds. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your microwave’s wattage, so check to ensure the perilla leaves are tender and the sauce has penetrated well, adjusting the time as needed. It’s truly amazing how quickly a delicious perilla leaf casserole is ready!
Step 7
Your fantastic ‘side dish for life,’ the perilla leaf casserole, is now ready after steaming in the microwave for 2 minutes and 30 seconds! It’s delicious served warm, but also excellent when cooled slightly. Paired with a bowl of rice, it’s the perfect ‘rice thief’ and will be a wonderful staple side dish for your home. Enjoy your meal!
