Shiso

Shiso is the herb derived from the deeply serrated leaves of several varieties of Perilla frutescens, a bushy perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae). Japan’s version of perilla, its flavor is clean and minty with notes of basil, citrus, and anise. The bright green type, called ōba, is one of the country’s signature herbs, laid under sashimi, fried into tempura, or shredded over rice and noodles. The red-purple type offers its striking color and tartness to umeboshi and other pickles.