Super Simple Steamed Perilla Leaves
10-Minute Microwave Steamed Perilla Leaves: The Ultimate Rice Thief!
Today, I’m bringing you an incredibly easy side dish recipe: steamed perilla leaves! I love perilla leaves and often make them into wraps, kimchi, or braised dishes. But when I’m short on time or busy in the morning, using the microwave is a lifesaver. Let’s make these simple steamed perilla leaves together.
Key Ingredients- 1 pack Perilla leaves
- 1/4 Onion
- 1/4 Green onion
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Take one pack of fresh perilla leaves. Rinse them thoroughly under running water, making sure to wash both sides. Gently pat them dry or let them air dry. Trim off the tough, dark stem ends with scissors for easier eating.
Step 2
Now, let’s make the delicious sauce! In a bowl, combine 2.5 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of gochugaru, 1 tablespoon of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 tablespoon of fish sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Finely slice the onion and thinly chop the green onion, then add them to the bowl. Stir everything together until well combined. Your flavorful seasoning is ready!
Step 3
Prepare a microwave-safe dish. Place 3-4 perilla leaves flat on the bottom of the dish. Take a spoonful of the prepared seasoning and spread it evenly over the leaves. Aim for a thin, even layer.
Step 4
Layer another 3-4 perilla leaves on top. This time, arrange them diagonally, crossing the direction of the leaves below. This layering technique makes it easier to separate the leaves later when serving. Drizzle a small amount of the seasoning evenly over this layer.
Step 5
Continue layering the perilla leaves and seasoning in this manner until all the leaves are used. Once layered, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap. You can poke a few small holes in the wrap with a fork for ventilation. Microwave the dish. * If you prefer a slightly crispier texture, microwave for 1 minute. If you like the seasoning to deeply penetrate the leaves for a softer texture, microwave for 2 minutes. (Adjust cooking time based on your microwave’s power.)
Step 6
Voila! Your delicious steamed perilla leaves are ready. I microwaved mine for just 1 minute to maintain their fresh, slightly crisp texture. These are truly a ‘rice thief’ – so flavorful they make you want to eat more rice! Served over warm rice, perhaps with a bit of broth, they’re so satisfying that you won’t need any other side dishes. This is a dish often enjoyed by elders, too.
Step 7
Imagine a bowl of steaming hot rice, topped with a fragrant perilla leaf from the steamer. That first bite is incredibly delicious, bursting with aroma and savory flavor that will awaken your appetite. The best part? It’s so incredibly easy and quick to make using just the microwave, without even turning on the stove! Try this simple yet incredibly tasty recipe yourself!
