Fragrant Stir-fried Petasites Hybrid Stems with Perilla Seeds
How to Make Stir-fried Petasites Hybrid Stems: Boiling, Preparing, and its Health Benefits
Introducing a recipe for delicious and fragrant stir-fried Petasites hybrid stems with perilla seeds, featuring a subtle bitterness and a rich, nutty flavor. This healthy side dish, made with carefully prepared Petasites hybrid stems, is a springtime delight! Once unfamiliar with the taste of wild greens, I’ve now fallen in love with them. Made with stems I grew myself, this stir-fry is packed with care and flavor, creating a healthy and tasty meal. The tender texture of the stems combined with the nutty perilla seeds makes it a perfect accompaniment to rice.
Ingredients
- 400g Petasites hybrid stems
- 1/4 large leek, finely chopped (about 2 Tbsp)
Seasoning
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp soup soy sauce (Guk-ganjang)
- 1 Tbsp tuna extract (optional, for umami)
- 1 Tbsp oligo syrup (or corn syrup)
- 2 Tbsp ground perilla seeds
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
For Boiling the Stems
- 0.7 Tbsp coarse salt
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 Tbsp soup soy sauce (Guk-ganjang)
- 1 Tbsp tuna extract (optional, for umami)
- 1 Tbsp oligo syrup (or corn syrup)
- 2 Tbsp ground perilla seeds
- 1 Tbsp cooking oil
- 1 Tbsp perilla oil
For Boiling the Stems
- 0.7 Tbsp coarse salt
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
Petasites hybrid (known as ‘meowidae’ in Korean) is a nutrient-rich vegetable from root to leaf. The stems, in particular, are popular for their slightly bitter and aromatic taste, often used in dishes like Yukgaejang (spicy beef soup) or as a namul (seasoned vegetable side dish). They are rich in calcium, beneficial for bone health, and high in dietary fiber, which helps prevent constipation. Any trace amounts of toxic substances in petasites are water-soluble and heat-sensitive, so they are safely removed during the boiling process. The leaves are abundant in Vitamin A, boosting immunity, and the stems’ calcium content may help prevent osteoporosis. The high fiber content is also good for weight management and digestion. It’s known to help with dry coughs and phlegm, and in traditional Korean medicine, it’s even used for hemostasis (stopping bleeding).
Step 2
Since the Petasites hybrid stems are quite long, cut them in half to make them easier to handle and boil. In a large pot, bring plenty of water to a boil, add 0.5 Tbsp of coarse salt, then add the prepared stems. Boil for about 10 minutes. After boiling, rinse the stems thoroughly under cold running water to cool them down.
Step 3
Boiling the stems makes peeling much easier and prevents your fingernails from turning black. After rinsing the boiled stems in cold water, gently peel the outer skin starting from the cut end.
Step 4
Cut the peeled stems into bite-sized pieces, about 5-7 cm in length. Finely chop the leek you’ll be using.
Step 5
Heat a pan over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp of cooking oil. Add the chopped leeks and 1 Tbsp of minced garlic, and sauté over low heat until fragrant. Finally, stir in 1 Tbsp of perilla oil for a nutty aroma. (If you don’t have perilla oil or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute with sesame oil.)
Step 6
Once the garlic and leek are fragrant, add the prepared Petasites hybrid stems to the pan. Pour in 1 Tbsp of soup soy sauce (Guk-ganjang) for seasoning. Stir-fry gently to allow the stems to absorb the flavors.
Step 7
Add 1 Tbsp of tuna extract (if using) for an extra layer of umami. Then, add 1 Tbsp of oligo syrup (or corn syrup) for a touch of sweetness and stir-fry everything together well. Be mindful of the heat to prevent the stems from becoming too dry.
Step 8
Finally, generously add 2 Tbsp of ground perilla seeds and mix well to combine, enhancing the nutty flavor. Stir continuously for about 1 minute to ensure the perilla seeds are evenly distributed and the dish is fully cooked.
Step 9
Transfer the finished stir-fried Petasites hybrid stems to a serving dish. For an appealing presentation, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and garnish with thinly sliced red chili peppers.
Step 10
Experience the delightful combination of tender texture, rich nutty flavor from the perilla seeds, and the subtle, fresh aroma of the Petasites hybrid stems. This stir-fry is so delicious, it’s sure to be the first dish to disappear from your table! Enjoy this wonderfully healthy and flavorful namul side dish that satisfies both taste and well-being.
