Tag: Cooking with perilla

As a member of the mint family, the perilla plant offers a complex and aromatic flavor profile that varies significantly by variety and preparation. If you've ever wondered how does perilla taste like, you'll find its unique taste is celebrated across East Asian cuisine, from bold Korean barbecue wraps to delicate Japanese sashimi garnishes.

Over 46,000 tons of perilla seeds were produced in Korea in 2015, highlighting their popularity in Asian cuisine. This growing interest often leads to the question: are perilla seeds safe to eat? For most people, when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, perilla seeds are not only safe but also highly nutritious.

Though often mistakenly called 'sesame leaf' in Korean markets due to a translation quirk, perilla is a distinct member of the mint family with a complex flavor profile. Its taste varies significantly depending on the specific variety and how it is prepared, from fresh culinary wraps to flavorful oils and pickles.

Cultivated in Asia for over 2000 years, perilla has a long history as both a culinary and medicinal herb. But is perilla safe to eat, especially the wild varieties found in North America that have been linked to animal poisonings?