| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 8 mins – 11 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 120 | 0g | 0g | 31g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 0.5g | 0.5g | 0.08g |
Every so often, a recipe comes along that perfectly captures the simple yet profound essence of what food can be, and the Shiso Juice: Refreshing juice made from Shiso leaves does exactly that. Growing up in Montana, I was surrounded by the rustic flavors of rancher’s meals and the deep, earthy traditions of Native American cuisine. While bison burgers and huckleberry pies remain my all-time favorites, the discovery of new flavors like those offered by Shiso leaves has only deepened my passion for culinary exploration.
A Burst of Refreshing Flavor
The Shiso Juice stands out, not just for its vibrant color, but for its invigorating taste. The delicate, aromatic Shiso leaves lend a unique herbaceous flavor that is both refreshing and complex. Paired with the natural sweetness of sugar and the tanginess of lemon juice, this drink is a delightful balance of sweet, sour, and savory. It’s reminiscent of a gourmet lemonade, yet utterly unique in its own way.
Health Benefits of Shiso Juice
Besides its delicious taste, Shiso Juice offers a range of health benefits. Shiso leaves are rich in antioxidants and boast anti-inflammatory properties. They are also known to aid in digestion and offer respiratory relief. The lemon juice in the recipe adds a burst of Vitamin C, known for boosting the immune system, while the water keeps you hydrated and refreshed. This makes Shiso Juice not just a tasty treat but a nutritious one as well.
Incorporating new and exciting ingredients into your cooking repertoire can be incredibly rewarding. If you’re a fan of other herb-infused beverages like basil lemonade or mint iced tea, you will likely find a new favorite in Shiso Juice. Pair it with a light summer meal like grilled chicken or a fresh salad, and you have the perfect combination for a delightful, healthful experience.
Food has the power to tell stories, bridge cultures, and bring joy to our daily lives. Shiso Juice: Refreshing juice made from Shiso leaves is a testament to that power, blending traditional flavors with refreshing, modern twists. It’s a simple recipe, yet it carries a world of tastes in every sip. If you haven’t tried it yet, now is the perfect time to take a sip of culinary adventure.
Learn more about Shiso leaves and their many uses: How to Use Shiso. For more herb-infused beverage ideas, check out this collection of recipes.
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups fresh Shiso leaves
- 8 cups water
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1 cup lemon juice (about 4-5 lemons)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Ice cubes for serving
Method
Step One
Rinse the Shiso leaves thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
Step Two
In a large pot, bring the 8 cups of water to a boil. Once boiling, add the Shiso leaves and reduce the heat. Let the leaves simmer for about 5 minutes until the water turns a vibrant color.
Step Three
Remove the pot from the heat and strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a large bowl to remove the Shiso leaves. Discard the leaves.
Step Four
While the liquid is still warm, add the sugar and salt, stirring until both are fully dissolved.
Step Five
Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, add the lemon juice and stir well to combine.
Step Six
Fill serving glasses with ice cubes and pour the Shiso juice over the ice. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing drink!
