Shiso (Perilla) is a herb (mint family) used in salad, toppings, or garnish in Japanese cooking. It has a unique fragrance and flavor loved by the Japanese.
Shiso (しそ, 紫蘇) is now the common name for the Asian culinary herb, seed (spice), or entire annual plant of Perilla frutescens variety crispa, belonging to the mint family.
Where To Buy Shiso
Japanese grocery stores usually carry them in their produce section; however, it’s rare to find in Asian grocery stores (except for a few JOC readers who told me their Asian market carries it).
Grow Your Own Shiso
Some JOC readers grow their own shiso and Don, one of JOC readers, shared this information about Japanese seeding company Kitazawa Seed Co. in California (you can shop online). Growing your own shiso is very easy, so give it a try! I will be planting one day when I have a little more time…
Recipes Using Shiso
Our Recommendations for Buying Sashimi Online
When we have a sudden craving for sashimi we usually buy from our local Japanese supermarkets. If you don't have a reliable shop to purchase quality sashimi nearby, we would recommend buying from Catalina Offshore online. They've been in business for over forty years and all the sashimi products we've tried from them are outstanding. The products we love are the saku cut tuna, hamachi loin, and all types of salmon. Disclosure: We earn a small percentage commission from your purchase of products linked to Catalina Offshore.
