Enchantingly Flavorful!
Give this dish some quality time on the stove, and its flavors will mingle and become something magical. You might find yourself unable to stop, but be warned: perilla seeds are loaded with good fats, so don’t be surprised if your jeans feel a little snug or you get some tummy troubles if you don’t show some restraint. Perilla seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, packing a serious dose of omega-3s, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory perks. Consider any potential weight gain a side effect of adding more good stuff to your diet!
Porridge made with perilla seeds and seaweed purifies the blood, prevents and alleviates constipation, enhances skin beauty, alleviates anemia, prevents colds and boosts immunity, restores energy, and prevents cardiovascular diseases, among other benefits. The rich antioxidant properties of perilla seeds and the nutrients of seaweed work synergistically. Its soft texture makes it easy to digest, making it an ideal choice for recovering from illness or as baby food.
Ingredients
- dried brown seaweed (mi-yeog) – ½ oz
- perilla seed powder (deul-kkae) – 1 Tbs
- short grain cooked rice – 6 oz
- water 2-½ cups
- sea salt – ¼ tsp
- soup soy sauce (gug-ganjang) – 1 tsp
- sesame oil – 1 Tbs
- olive oil – 1 Tbs
Prep & Cooking:
- Prep:
- Soak dried mi-yeog (seaweed) in room temperature water for 10-15 minutes and strain
- Cooking:
- Add olive oil and mi-yeog (seaweed) in a small pot. (option: add 1/2 teaspoon of perilla oil) TIP1> Do not put both ingredients in a heated pot as water and oil will splatter.
- Continuously stir in medium high heat. TIP2> Cooking thoroughly will bring out the full flavor of mi-yeog. Stir-frying soaked seaweed in oil will remove the fishy smell and add a savory flavor.
- Pour water in the pot
- Add sesame oil and guk-ganjang (soup soy sauce)
- Simmer for 20 minutes
- Add leftover rice and separate lumps (option: sweet rice powder in lieu of cooked rice – 2Tbs)
- After coming to boil, add deul-kkae powder (perilla) and stir
- Simmer for 5 minutes
- Add sea salt to taste
6 Health Benefits of Perilla Seed Powder:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Perilla seeds are exceptionally high in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). Omega-3s are essential for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
- Antioxidant Properties: Perilla seeds contain powerful antioxidants, such as rosmarinic acid and perillartin. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease.
- Skin Health: Perilla seed oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products. It has anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties that can help soothe skin conditions, reduce acne, and improve skin elasticity.
- Digestive Health: Perilla seeds are a good source of fiber, which promotes healthy digestion. They can also help relieve constipation and reduce bloating.
- Immune System Support: Perilla seeds contain vitamins and minerals, such as zinc and vitamin A, which are essential for a strong immune system.
- Other Benefits: Perilla seeds have been traditionally used in Asian medicine for various purposes, including: Reducing fever, relieving cough and asthma, Improving mood and cognitive function, and Strengthening hair and nails.
*Note: While perilla seeds are generally safe for most people, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before consuming them if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
5 Health Benefits of Dried Brown Seaweed:
- Antioxidant Properties: Contains antioxidants like polyphenols and fucoxanthin, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. May reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
- Heart Health: May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to its high potassium and fiber content. Contains omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health.
- Blood Sugar Control: May help regulate blood sugar levels due to its fiber and antioxidant content. May be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.
- Immune System Support: Provides vitamins and minerals that are essential for a strong immune system. Contains prebiotics, which feed beneficial bacteria in the gut.
- Other Benefits: May promote weight loss by increasing satiety and boosting metabolism. May improve skin health due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. May have potential anti-cancer effects, although more research is needed.
*Note: It’s important to consume dried seaweed in moderation, as excessive consumption can lead to iodine toxicity. Additionally, some types of seaweed may contain heavy metals, so it’s recommended to choose reputable sources.
