| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 95 | 1g | 0g | 18g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 12g | 3g | 3g | 1.23g |
I am particularly fond of this exciting, flavor-packed dish: Spicy Perilla Leaf Pickles (Deulkkae Jangajji). Rooted in the cuisine of my beloved Italy, it embraces the bold tastes of Korea in a fusion of flavors that are harmonious despite their geographical distance. An infusion of sweet, tangy and spicy elements, it encapsulates the essence of my cooking style – traditional with a twist.
Raised on a diet of hearty Italian-American dishes, my gastronomic journey began in a home where the scent of simmering tomato sauce wafted through the air and the sight of spaghetti being twirled on a fork was a common spectacle. As I cultivate my culinary expertise, diversifying my palate has become equally important as preserving my family traditions. The Spicy Perilla Leaf Pickles (Deulkkae Jangajji), therefore, offers that perfect blend of familiar and novel flavors.
A Fusion of Health and Flavor
While the warmth and love embedded in each dish are of paramount importance to me, the health benefits associated with the ingredients are not overlooked. The Spicy Perilla Leaf Pickles carries a multitude of health benefits. Bountiful in vitamins and minerals, perilla leaves are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Coupled with the digestive benefits of fermented pickles, it’s a guilt-free indulgence.
A Versatile Companion to Main Courses
Although this recipe stands out on its own, it also complements a variety of other dishes wonderfully. Its piquant nature makes it a great accompaniment to grilled meats or fish, much like the traditional Italian peperonata. Furthermore, it also fits seamlessly into a Korean spread, specularly balancing the creamy richness of dishes like Bibimbap. So, whether you’re serving an Italian-American feast or a Korean banquet, the Spicy Perilla Leaf Pickles can add that much-needed zing to your table.
You can explore a myriad of other possible pairings with this zesty pickle here. I encourage you to take this recipe and make it your own, setting it as a staple in your kitchen as I have in mine. After all, it’s the love you pour into the dish that makes eating a truly enriching experience.
What You’ll Need
- 2 bunches of perilla leaves
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1/4 cup of sugar
- 1/2 cup of thinly sliced red chili peppers
- 3 cloves of minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon of minced ginger
Method
Step One
To start with this enticing recipe, the first step includes washing the perilla leaves thoroughly. Allow them to dry.
Step Two
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, rice vinegar, water and sugar. Stir the mixture well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
Step Three
Add the thinly sliced red chili peppers, minced garlic and minced ginger into the mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Step Four
Get a large container or jar. Place a layer of perilla leaves at the bottom. Pour some of the prepared mixture over the leaves. Repeat this process, layering the leaves and the mixture until all the leaves are in the jar and covered with the mixture.
Step Five
The final step involves letting it rest on the counter for a day, then move it to the refrigerator. Let it pickle for at least a week before enjoying your homemade spicy perilla leaf pickles.
