Fragrant Perilla Shoots Seasoned
Packed with Greenery ~ Perilla Shoots Seasoned!
I had sown perilla seeds to grow seedlings in a corner of my garden. However, the perilla leaves grew too densely, so I couldn’t use them as seedlings. So, I decided to make them into a side dish instead. This is a simple and delicious way to enjoy fresh perilla shoots.
Ingredients- 160g fresh perilla shoots
- 1 Tbsp salt (for blanching)
Seasoning- 1/4 tsp soy sauce for soup
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1/4 tsp soy sauce for soup
- 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- A pinch of toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Cut the perilla shoots into manageable pieces with scissors. Cutting them to a moderate length will make them easier to season later.
Step 2
Wash the perilla shoots thoroughly. Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil, add 1 tablespoon of salt, and blanch the shoots very briefly. It’s crucial to blanch for only about 30 seconds to 1 minute to make them tender without losing their vibrant color. Immediately rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well.
Step 3
Gather the blanched perilla shoots in your hands and squeeze out as much excess water as possible. Then, cut them into bite-sized pieces, about 3-4 cm long. Squeezing out the water prevents the dish from becoming watery and helps the seasoning adhere better.
Step 4
In a large bowl, combine the squeezed perilla shoots with all the seasoning ingredients: 1/4 tsp soy sauce for soup, 1 tsp minced garlic, 1/2 Tbsp sesame oil, and a pinch of toasted sesame seeds.
Step 5
Gently mix and toss the ingredients with your hands until everything is well combined. Be careful not to mash the delicate perilla shoots. Ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed for the best flavor. The aromatic perilla shoots will meld beautifully with the seasonings.
Step 6
This seasoned perilla shoot dish offers a wonderfully tender texture and a refreshing aroma that fills your mouth. It’s a delightful side dish that everyone is sure to enjoy!
