Aromatic Perilla Leaf Salad with a Touch of Nostalgia
A Nostalgic Side Dish: Fragrant Perilla Leaves Salad
I vividly remember when my mom brought perilla leaves home from the market, and I was surprised, thinking, ‘We eat perilla leaves?’ But after tasting it, I was captivated by its nutty flavor. Every time I eat this dish, it brings back warm childhood memories. Enjoy this simple yet special side dish made with fragrant perilla leaves, a spring delicacy.
Main Ingredients- Perilla leaves 1 bunch (cleaned and trimmed)
Seasoning Ingredients- Gochujang (red chili paste) 1 Tbsp
- Ssamjang (spicy soybean paste) 1 tsp
- Minced garlic 5 cloves (adjust to your taste)
- Sesame oil 1 Tbsp (for a nutty aroma)
- Sesame seeds, generous amount (to taste)
- Corn syrup or Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp (for a subtle sweetness)
- Gochujang (red chili paste) 1 Tbsp
- Ssamjang (spicy soybean paste) 1 tsp
- Minced garlic 5 cloves (adjust to your taste)
- Sesame oil 1 Tbsp (for a nutty aroma)
- Sesame seeds, generous amount (to taste)
- Corn syrup or Oligosaccharide 1 Tbsp (for a subtle sweetness)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Prepare the perilla leaves, ensuring they are fresh. Carefully trim away any tough or fibrous stems. Use only the tender leaves for the best texture.
Step 2
Bring a pot of water to a rolling boil. Briefly blanch the perilla leaves in the boiling water for about 10-20 seconds, just until they wilt. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy. Immediately rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process, then gently squeeze out excess water.
Step 3
In a mixing bowl, combine 1 Tbsp of gochujang, 1 tsp of ssamjang, 5 cloves of minced garlic (ensure it’s finely minced for better flavor distribution), 1 Tbsp of sesame oil, and 1 Tbsp of corn syrup or oligosaccharide.
Step 4
Using a spoon or spatula, thoroughly mix all the seasoning ingredients to create a well-blended sauce. Stir until all components are evenly combined.
Step 5
Gently add the blanched and drained perilla leaves to the flavorful seasoning mixture.
Step 6
Using your hands, gently toss and mix the leaves with the seasoning until they are evenly coated. Be sure to mix delicately to avoid breaking the leaves.
Step 7
Finally, sprinkle generously with sesame seeds and give it a light toss. Your fragrant and delicious perilla leaf salad is ready! It’s incredibly tasty served over warm rice. This dish is perfect for when you need a refreshing and flavorful accompaniment.
