Red shiso leaves (red perilla leaves) are used in traditional Japanese cuisine as a natural condiment and colouring agent to make pickles.
Did you know than you can also use them to make a refreshing drink in the summer?
Red shiso leaves are available from June to August.
First you’ll need a batch of red shiso leaves.I bought mine at the Farmers Supermarket.
For a batch of 300g of shiso leaves, you’ll need 500g-1kg of sugar (if you don’t mind the sweetness), 500ml of vinegar or 25g of citric acid sold in drugstores.
First, while washing the leaves, boil 2 liters of water in a big pot.
Put the leaves inside and boil for 20 minutes.
Remove the leaves and filter carefully with fabric or a strainer.
The liquid will be brownish like so.
Then put the sugar and vinegar (or citric acid) and it’ll turn vibrant pink!
Once the sugar has melted, boil once more for few minutes.
Pour the liquid into a sterilized bottle and keep inside fridge.
When cooled you can enjoy it diluted with still or carbonated water and ice cubes.
This is a sweet and sour refreshing drink to enjoy in the summer!
Would you like to try some?
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