Steamed Perilla Leaves (Perilla Kimchi)
Steamed Perilla Leaves (Perilla Kimchi)
How to Make Steamed Perilla Leaves, Perilla Seasoning Sauce Recipe
I usually enjoy perilla leaves as a wrap, but I decided to make steamed perilla leaves (perilla kimchi) as a side dish after a long time. I ate it deliciously, taking one leaf at a time with warm rice. This recipe transforms simple perilla leaves into a flavorful side dish, perfect for any meal. It’s a great way to enjoy the aromatic flavor of perilla leaves in a new way.
Ingredients for Steamed Perilla Leaves- 30 fresh perilla leaves (approx. 3 bunches)
- 30g onion (approx. 1/4 medium onion)
- 17g carrot (approx. 1/4 small carrot)
- 1 Tbsp chopped green onion
- 0.5 Tbsp minced garlic
- 3 Tbsp soy sauce
- 1 Tbsp cooking wine (Mirin)
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
- 0.3-0.4 Tbsp oligosaccharide (or corn syrup)
- A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare 3 bunches of fresh perilla leaves. The freshness of the leaves is key to the final taste, so choose the freshest ones you can find.
Step 2
Using scissors, trim off the tough ends of the perilla leaf stems. Gently untie any strings holding the bunches together and arrange the leaves neatly. Place the prepared perilla leaves in a large bowl.
Step 3
To ensure the perilla leaves are thoroughly cleaned, fill the bowl with enough water to submerge them. Take one leaf at a time, place it in the palm of your hand, and gently rub both sides to wash away any dirt. Rinse each leaf under running water about twice for a clean finish.
Step 4
After washing, place the perilla leaves on a colander to drain any excess water. It’s important to remove as much moisture as possible to prevent the steamed dish from becoming too watery.
Step 5
Prepare the vegetables for the seasoning sauce. Finely julienne the carrot and onion. Finely chop the green onion. Measure out 0.5 Tbsp of minced garlic.
Step 6
Now, let’s make the delicious seasoning sauce for the steamed perilla leaves. In a bowl, add the julienned onion, carrot, and the prepared minced garlic.
Step 7
Add 3 Tbsp of soy sauce to provide a savory depth of flavor.
Step 8
Incorporate 1 Tbsp of perilla oil. The nutty and subtle aroma of perilla oil will enhance the overall flavor profile of your steamed perilla leaves, making them even more delicious.
Step 9
Add 0.3 to 0.4 Tbsp of oligosaccharide (or corn syrup) for a touch of sweetness. You can adjust this amount to your preference.
Step 10
Finally, add 1 Tbsp of cooking wine (Mirin). Mirin helps to soften the saltiness of the soy sauce, enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients, and adds a layer of complexity. It’s used here instead of water to boost the overall taste.
Step 11
Mix all the seasoning sauce ingredients thoroughly with a spoon until well combined. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add a little more soy sauce for saltiness or a bit more oligosaccharide for sweetness to suit your palate.
Step 12
In a microwave-safe container, layer 3-4 perilla leaves and spread a portion of the seasoning sauce over them. Repeat this process, stacking the perilla leaves and sauce layer by layer. Make sure to distribute the sauce evenly so you don’t run out.
Step 13
Cover the container with its lid. If you don’t have a microwave-safe lid, you can cover it with plastic wrap, leaving one corner slightly ajar or poking a few small holes. This prevents the wrap from ballooning during heating.
Step 14
Microwave on high for about 1.5 to 2 minutes. This step allows the perilla leaves to soften and absorb the flavors of the sauce. Start checking around 1.5 minutes and adjust the time as needed.
Step 15
After microwaving for 2 minutes, you’ll notice that the perilla leaves have wilted slightly, and there will be some liquid at the bottom of the container from the released moisture, indicating they are perfectly cooked.
Step 16
Carefully transfer the steamed perilla leaves to a serving plate. Sprinkle a generous amount of toasted sesame seeds over the top for a beautiful garnish. Your delicious steamed perilla leaves (perilla kimchi) are now ready to be enjoyed with warm rice!
