Replacements for Shisho Leaves

Shisho, a decorative, aromatic herb of the mint family, is often found in Japan and Korea. It is also known as perilla or perilla mint. Shiso leaves are now rather pricey and often difficult to get fresh or even as a dried herb. It may not be widely available near you, so you should hunt for alternatives. So, let’s learn more about these shiso leaf alternatives and use them.

Best Shiso Leaves Substitutes

When it comes to tastes, shiso leaves have a lot going on. If you can’t get your hands on one, use the replacements suggested below for a comparable flavor.

1. Mint leaves

Since mint and Shiso are from the same family, the Lamiaceae mint leaves are the finest alternative for shiso leaves. As a result, they have comparable tasting and aroma. These leaves have a richer, sweeter flavor with a hint of spice. They also offer a chilly tingling feeling due to the presence of menthol in the leaves. In addition, they may have a slightly bitter flavor. Mint is frequently linked with sweets, but it is also well suited to the cuisine items in which Shiso is employed due to its almost flavorful impact. As a result, because mint and Shiso are so similar, you may use them as a replacement. The only difference is that mint leaves are smaller than shiso leaves. As a result, they cannot be used to wrap rolls. They are, nevertheless, perfect as a flavoring ingredient.

2. Thai basil

Thai basil, which originated in Southeast Asia, is a key component in Asian cooking. Shiso and Thai Basil are both members of the mint family and are frequently used interchangeably. Thai basil has the same color composition as Shiso, but it also has similar flavors. It has a spicy flavor and a bittersweet, sour taste, similar to Shiso. Again, because Thai basil is smaller than mint leaves, it cannot be used to wrap rolls. However, it is ideal for adding flavor to your cuisine.

3. Sweet basil

Sweet basil has a delicate taste that blends sweet and sour. It also has pepper, mint, and anise tastes. As a result, it possesses tastes similar to Shiso, making it a viable alternative. If you want more volume in your recipes, combine sweet basil with mint leaves.

4. Grape leaves

Grape leaves are an excellent alternative for shiso leaves. They have a very delicate feel. In addition, they have a tart and lemony flavor, similar to Shiso. Furthermore, because they are stocky, they can tolerate lengthy cooking techniques. The nicest aspect is that they are quite easy to get and large enough for wraps. As a result, they will provide the nearly same taste and a nearly identical look to your cuisine! Remember that grape leaves are best used while they are young.

5. Green onion

Green onion is one of the most frequent items used in place of shiso leaves. Green onions, like Shiso leaves, may give a similar green tint to your recipes. Furthermore, its cold and refreshing flavor is ideal for Japanese cuisine such as Sashimi. On the other hand, green onion has a slightly spicy flavor compared to shiso leaves. As a result, use it sparingly.

6. Lemon basil

Lemon basil has a similar flavor to sweet basil. It does, however, have a stronger flavor than regular basil. Lemon basil is used in shiso leaves since they have the same acidic and somewhat bitter flavor. To get a cold mint-like flavor, combine lemon basil with mint leaves.

7. Cilantro

Cilantro is not a member of the mint family, yet it may be used in place of Shiso. It has a strong citrus flavor and a spicy aroma. As a result, the flavor is similar to that of shiso leaves. The good thing is that cilantro is a popular product worldwide. As a result, it’s widely available at stores around you or even in your own home.

8. Lemon thyme

Lemon thyme has a savory and sweet flavor. As a result, it can also be used in place of shiso leaves. The best method to use lemon thyme to create a flavor comparable to shiso leaves is to combine it with mint.

FAQ

How do Shiso leaves taste?

Shiso leaves have spiky edges and are often red or green. They have a striking similarity to basil leaves. Furthermore, they have a minty, bittersweet flavor with a hint of tanginess, comparable to basil. Shiso leaves have a strong taste and may thus provide you with a range of flavors. One mouthful will leave you tasting basil, cinnamon, tarragon, mint, cilantro, and many more flavors! What’s remarkable about shiso leaves is that the flavor varies depending on the leaves you use. The green leaves, for example, taste like a combination of mint and cinnamon, while the red leaves taste like cumin and basil combined with spearmint and anise.

Is Shiso basil Thai basil?

Shiso is a herb that the Japanese regularly use for wraps and flavor their cuisine. Thai basil is now classified as a herb in the mint family. Even though they come from the same family, they are very different. Thai basil, for example, has much smaller leaves than Shiso. Furthermore, the tastes vary. However, Thai basil is used in place of Shiso.