Everything You Need to Know About Shiso
Shiso, a herb originally from the mint family, has long been a staple in a variety of Asian cuisines. From bringing color to dishes with its bright green leaves to delivering a unique and delightful taste unlike anything else, Shiso is truly a herb worth knowing.
A Bit About Shiso’s Origins
Shiso, or Perilla frutescens as it is scientifically known, originated in the mountainous terrains of India and China. Today, it is more commonly associated with Japan due to its prevalent use in traditional Japanese dishes. It’s also affectionately known by other monikers such as Japanese basil, Beefsteak plant, and Purple mint. More about Shiso’s history.
This herb is marked by its vibrant green leaves, although there is a purple-leaf variety that is just as common. It has a distinctive taste that is a combination of mint, basil, and cilantro with notes of cinnamon and citrus. Shiso, specifically the green variety, is the star of many Japanese dishes due to its vivid taste and vibrant color. The purple-leaf variety is commonly used in pickled dishes for its striking hue.
Health Benefits of Shiso
Shiso is more than just a lovely flavor addition to your meals; it’s a powerhouse of health benefits too. Packed with vitamins A and C, along with a healthy dose of iron, calcium, and potassium, incorporating Shiso into your diet is not just tasty but healthy too. It’s also rich in rosmarinic acid, a potent antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory compound that can help alleviate allergy symptoms, offer relief from arthritis and even improve memory. See more health benefits of Shiso.
Studies indicate that shiso has antimicrobial, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great addition to any health-conscious diet. The leaves can be used fresh in salads or cooked in a variety of dishes while shiso seeds are often used as an ingredient in spice mixtures or for oil.
From its intriguing history to its impressive health benefits, Shiso truly is a unique and remarkable herb. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie seeking new flavors or a health enthusiast searching for natural ways to enhance your diet, adding a bit of Shiso to your meals is certainly worth considering.
