What is Perilla, Shiso, Kkaennip?
Part of our Ultimate Guide to World Cuisine. Click to see more answers to your questions.
Perilla, a plant with a rich culinary history in East Asia, goes by several names, including “kkaennip” in Korea, “shiso” in Japan, and simply “perilla” in Vietnam.
As a member of the mint family, its leaves offer a distinctive flavor blend of mint, basil, and anise, making them a popular ingredient in a variety of dishes.
Korean, Japanese and Vietnamese Cuisine
In Korean cuisine, perilla leaves are frequently used to wrap rice and meat or to add depth to stews, pickles and stir-fries. Japanese dishes incorporate shiso in sushi and as a garnish, where its unique flavor complements the other ingredients. (Get our recipe for Fried Pork with Ginger here.) Vietnamese cuisine benefits from perilla’s fresh taste in salads and spring rolls and as a garnish, adding a refreshing note to meals.
Buying and storing perilla, shiso, kkaennip
To find perilla, visit Asian grocery stores, especially those specializing in Korean, Japanese, or Vietnamese products. Look for packaging labeled “perilla,” “shiso,” or “kkaennip.” When selecting fresh leaves, opt for ones that are vibrant in color and free from wilting. To keep them fresh at home, wrap the leaves in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator, which will help preserve their flavor and texture for up to a week. Perilla leaves are not only flavorful but also nutritious, containing vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants. They are believed to have anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic properties, making them a healthy addition to meals.
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- Green Perilla: Often used fresh in dishes, with a milder flavor.
- Red/Purple Perilla: Typically has a stronger taste and is used in pickling or as a dye in foods.
Perilla is easy to grow
It is not difficult to growing perilla in a home garden. The plant thrives in well-drained soil and sunny spots, making it suitable for garden beds and pots alike. Start with seeds or seedlings, ensuring regular watering to keep the soil moist without becoming waterlogged.
Once mature, you can harvest the leaves as needed, providing a fresh and accessible supply for your cooking. Perilla is a valuable addition to any kitchen, offering a unique flavor that enhances a wide range of dishes.
Growing perilla on a windowsill is a convenient option for those with limited space, allowing you to enjoy fresh leaves year-round. To start, choose a pot with good drainage and fill it with well-draining potting soil. Perilla thrives in slightly acidic to neutral soil. Position the pot on a windowsill that receives plenty of sunlight, ideally at least 6-8 hours per day. A south-facing window is usually the best spot. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, watering the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
Perilla prefers warm temperatures, so try to maintain a range between 70-85°F (21-29°C), and avoid placing the plant near cold drafts or excessively hot areas.
As the perilla plant matures, you can start harvesting the leaves as needed. Regular harvesting not only provides you with a continuous supply of fresh leaves but also encourages the plant to grow bushier and produce more foliage.
Purchase perilla seeds online
Amazon is a popular choice, offering a wide selection of both green and red perilla seeds. It’s always a good idea to check the reviews and seller ratings to ensure you’re getting quality seeds. Etsy is another excellent option, where you can find seeds from small-scale farmers or gardening enthusiasts who often provide detailed descriptions of their seeds. Seed Savers Exchange, a non-profit organization focused on preserving heirloom seeds, also offers perilla seeds in their extensive catalog. For those looking for rare and heirloom varieties, Hudson Valley Seed Co. sells organic AO Shiso:
The leaves are large and flat making them easy to roll and slice as an elegant chiffonade. Some describe the taste as a cross between mint, cinnamon, basil, and anise. The plants are compact and suitable for an edible landscaping plan.
Johnny’s Selected Seeds is another reliable source, offering various seeds, including perilla, with a focus on quality and detailed growing instructions.
