Aromatic Perilla Leaf Pancakes: Super Simple 5-Minute Side Dish
Aromatic Perilla Leaf Pancakes: Super Simple 5-Minute Side Dish
A Truly Simple Side Dish: Perilla Leaf Pancakes
When you suddenly need a side dish and want to increase your options quickly, these perilla leaf pancakes are perfect! They offer a delightful aroma and a satisfying texture, making them a great addition to any meal.
Main Ingredients for Perilla Leaf Pancakes- 2 bundles fresh perilla leaves
- 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour (or Korean pancake mix)
- 2 pinches salt (approx. 0.5g)
- 1/3 cup cold water (approx. 60ml)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, carefully wash each perilla leaf, the star of this dish. Rinse them thoroughly under running water, then let them drain slightly on a colander. This is the crucial first step to preserving their wonderful aroma!
Step 2
Next, let’s prepare the batter that will coat the perilla leaves beautifully – their ‘clothing.’ In a bowl, combine 3 tablespoons of Korean pancake mix (or all-purpose flour) and 2 pinches of salt. Gradually add 1/3 cup of cold water while stirring to create a smooth batter without lumps. Aim for a consistency that thinly coats the perilla leaves without being too watery or too thick. (Tip: Using cold water helps achieve a crispier texture.)
Step 3
Now it’s time to dress the perilla leaves with the batter we’ve carefully prepared. Dip the washed perilla leaves lightly into the batter, coating both sides. It’s important to apply a thin, even layer rather than a thick one. The aroma of the perilla leaves will meld with the batter, making them even more delicious.
Step 4
Heat a frying pan with a generous amount of cooking oil over medium heat. Place the battered perilla leaves one by one onto the hot pan. Cook, flipping them occasionally, until they turn golden brown and crispy on both sides. (Tip: Cooking over high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked, so medium heat is recommended for slow, even cooking.)
Step 5
Once both sides are a beautiful golden color and the fragrant scent of perilla leaves fills the air, they are ready! Serve these delicious pancakes with a warm bowl of rice for a perfect meal or a satisfying side dish. Enjoy!
