Shiso, botanically known as Perilla frutescens, is a highly aromatic herb commonly used in Japanese, Korean, and Southeast Asian cuisine. It has a distinctive flavour that combines notes of basil, mint, citrus, and spice, making it a versatile ingredient in both fresh and cooked dishes.
Available in green and red varieties, shiso is grown both for its culinary value and ornamental appeal. This guide explains how to grow shiso and how to use it in cooking.
What Makes Shiso Unique
Shiso has broad, serrated leaves with a soft texture and a bold, complex flavour. Unlike traditional herbs, it delivers multiple flavour layers at once, including herbal, slightly sweet, and subtly peppery notes.
Green shiso is typically used fresh, while red shiso is often used for pickling, colouring, and preserving foods.
Because of its strong flavour, shiso is often used as a key ingredient rather than a background herb.
How to Grow Shiso
Shiso is a warm-season annual in Canadian climates and grows well in garden beds or containers during summer.
Light Requirements
Full sun to partial sun is ideal. At least four to six hours of sunlight daily supports healthy growth.
Soil and Drainage
Well-draining, nutrient-rich soil is recommended. A high-quality herb or vegetable mix supports steady growth.
Watering
Keep the soil evenly moist, allowing the top layer to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid letting the plant dry out completely.
Temperature
Shiso is sensitive to frost and should only be planted outdoors once temperatures are consistently warm.
Growth Habit
Shiso grows upright and bushy, typically reaching 1 to 3 feet tall depending on conditions.
How Shiso Is Used in Cooking
Shiso is widely used as both a fresh herb and a wrap, similar to lettuce or grape leaves. Its bold flavour pairs well with rice, seafood, grilled meats, and pickled dishes.
Common uses include:
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Wrapping rice or sushi
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Garnishing noodle dishes
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Adding to salads
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Mixing into sauces
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Pairing with grilled meats
Leaves are typically used whole or lightly sliced.
Classic Use: Shiso in Rice and Sushi
Shiso is often served fresh alongside rice dishes.
Simple Shiso Rice
Ingredients:
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Cooked rice
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Fresh shiso leaves
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Sesame seeds
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Soy sauce (optional)
Instructions:
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Finely slice fresh shiso leaves
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Mix into warm rice
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Add sesame seeds and a small amount of soy sauce if desired
This highlights the herb’s fresh, aromatic flavour.
Shiso as a Wrap
Shiso leaves can be used whole to wrap:
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Rice
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Grilled meats
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Vegetables
The leaf adds both flavour and texture, making it a functional and edible garnish.
Using Shiso in Sauces and Dressings
Shiso can be blended into sauces or dressings for a bright, herbal flavour.
Quick Shiso Dressing
Ingredients:
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Fresh shiso leaves
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Rice vinegar
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Oil
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Soy sauce
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Garlic
Instructions:
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Blend all ingredients until smooth
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Adjust seasoning to taste
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Use on salads, noodles, or grilled vegetables
Cooking Tips for Best Flavour
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Use fresh leaves for maximum aroma
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Add near the end of cooking to preserve flavour
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Slice thinly for even distribution
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Pair with rice, seafood, or citrus-based dishes
Red shiso is often used for pickling and colouring foods rather than fresh eating.
Growing for Culinary Use
To keep plants productive:
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Harvest regularly to encourage branching
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Pinch growing tips for bushier plants
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Harvest before flowering for best flavour
Frequent harvesting keeps the plant compact and usable.
Final Takeaway
Shiso is a versatile, flavour-rich herb that thrives in warm conditions and bright light. With consistent moisture and regular harvesting, it produces a steady supply of aromatic leaves.
Its unique flavour makes it ideal for fresh dishes, wraps, and sauces, bringing depth and complexity to a wide range of recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Shiso
What does shiso taste like?
Shiso has a complex flavour combining basil, mint, citrus, and mild spice.
Can I eat shiso raw?
Yes. It is most commonly used fresh in salads, wraps, and garnishes.
How do I use shiso leaves?
They can be used whole, sliced, or blended into sauces and dressings.
Is shiso easy to grow?
Yes. It grows well in warm conditions with regular watering.
Can shiso grow in Canada?
Yes, as a warm-season annual during the summer.
What is the difference between green and red shiso?
Green shiso is used fresh, while red shiso is often used for pickling and colouring.