Super Easy Microwave Steamed Perilla Leaves
Super Easy Microwave Steamed Perilla Leaves
How to Make Delicious Steamed Perilla Leaves in Just 2 Minutes with Your Microwave
Perilla leaf kimchi (jjim) is a classic side dish that is sure to make you devour your rice! Wrapping fragrant perilla leaves around a spoonful of white rice makes it disappear in no time. If you’re short on time, don’t worry! Today, I’ll show you how to make delicious steamed perilla leaves easily and quickly using just your microwave, in a mere 2 minutes. Even when you have no appetite, this dish will help you finish your rice bowl in a flash!
Steamed Perilla Leaf Ingredients- 30 fresh perilla leaves
- 2.5 Tbsp red pepper flakes (gochugaru)
- 2 Tbsp soy sauce (jin ganjang)
- 0.5 Tbsp fish sauce (e.g., anchovy or sand lance)
- 0.5 Tbsp sugar
- 2 Tbsp plum extract (maesil cheong)
- 1/3 stalk green onion, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- A small piece of dried kelp (for broth)
- A little sesame oil
- A little toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
1. The foundation of delicious steamed perilla leaves is a good broth! Pour about half a cup (approx. 100ml) of water into a small bowl, add the piece of dried kelp, and let it steep for 30 minutes to create a flavorful kelp broth. (If you’re short on time, you can also use store-bought broth or anchovy broth.)
Step 2
2. To enhance the freshness of the perilla leaves, fill a bowl with plenty of water, add 1-2 drops of vinegar, and soak the leaves for about 5 minutes. This helps remove any undesirable odors and keeps the leaves wonderfully fresh.
Step 3
3. After washing the perilla leaves thoroughly, place them in a colander, ensuring they don’t overlap, and drain them well. Gently pat them dry with paper towels; this helps the seasoning adhere better.
Step 4
4. Now, let’s make the seasoning that will bring out the best flavor! In a bowl, combine the red pepper flakes, soy sauce, fish sauce, sugar, plum extract, finely chopped green onion, minced garlic, and 1 Tbsp of the prepared kelp broth, along with the sesame oil and toasted sesame seeds. Mix everything thoroughly. Letting the seasoning sit for a moment will help the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5
5. In a microwave-safe dish or container, layer the perilla leaves two at a time. Spread a thin layer of the prepared seasoning between each pair of leaves. Make sure to coat both sides of the leaves evenly with the delicious seasoning.
Step 6
6. Once all the perilla leaves are layered, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. Then, poke a few small holes in the plastic wrap with a fork or toothpick to allow steam to escape. Microwave on high for just 2 minutes, and your delicious steamed perilla leaves are ready! They are wonderful served warm, or you can enjoy them chilled for an even more intense flavor.
