Savory Braised Perilla Leaves
How to Make Delicious Braised Perilla Leaves with the Perfect Seasoning
These braised perilla leaves are incredibly delicious served atop a bowl of steaming white rice! Their wonderful aroma makes them a favorite for wraps, but when braised like this, they become a true ‘rice thief’ – a dish that makes you devour rice at an astonishing speed. Let’s make these flavorful braised perilla leaves today.
Main Ingredients
- Perilla leaves, about 1 bunch (approx. 30-40 leaves)
- Chili peppers (like Cheongyang), 3
- Scallions, 10cm length
- Onion, 1/2
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, wash the perilla leaves thoroughly. Bring a pot of water to a boil, add 1 Tbsp of salt, and blanch the perilla leaves for about 15 minutes until tender. This process removes any raw smell and helps the leaves absorb the seasoning better.
Step 2
Next, prepare the vegetables that will enhance the flavor of the braised perilla leaves. Finely chop the 3 chili peppers and the 10cm piece of scallion. Slice the 1/2 onion into thin strips as well.
Step 3
Now, let’s make the delicious seasoning for the perilla leaves. In a bowl, combine 2 Tbsp minced garlic, 5 Tbsp gochugaru, 5 Tbsp soy sauce, 3 Tbsp soup soy sauce, 1 Tbsp oligosaccharide, 3 Tbsp perilla oil, 1 Tbsp sugar, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix everything well.
Step 4
Stir the seasoning mixture until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Taste and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. A helpful tip: since the flavor intensifies as it simmers, it’s best not to make the seasoning too salty from the start.
Step 5
In a wide pot, place a layer of the blanched perilla leaves. Spoon a generous amount of the prepared seasoning over them. Continue layering the perilla leaves, ensuring each layer is well-coated with the seasoning. Finally, top with the prepared onions, chili peppers, and scallions, and pour 1/2 cup (100ml) of water around the edges.
Step 6
Cover the pot with a lid and simmer over medium heat. Braise gently, checking occasionally to prevent sticking or burning, until the sauce has reduced and thickened nicely. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 7
Serve the beautifully braised perilla leaves over a bowl of warm rice. The aromatic leaves and the savory seasoning will create a dish so delicious, a bowl of rice will disappear in no time! We hope you enjoy making and eating these flavorful braised perilla leaves. Your dish is complete!
