Perilla Oil

What Is Perilla Oil?

Perilla oil is pressed from the seeds of the perilla plant (Perilla frutescens, “deulkkae” in Korean). The plant’s leaves are also used as a vegetable in Korean cuisine, but this product is a separate oil made from the seeds.

It is dark brown to amber, rich, and has a mildly nutty, herbaceous aroma. It is a popular finishing oil in Korean and, to some extent, Japanese cuisine, with an aroma profile similar to but distinct from sesame oil.

Perilla Oil Nutrition Facts

Like all plant oils, 100 grams of perilla oil provides about 884 kcal of energy and consists entirely of fat; among plant oils, it has one of the highest levels of omega-3 (ALA).

How Should Perilla Oil Be Consumed?

Like all oils, perilla oil is high in calories and should be used in moderation as part of a balanced diet; because it is high in omega-3, it is preferred especially for cold uses.

This is general information; perilla oil is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Perilla Oil

Good perilla oil is dark brown to amber, has a fresh, nutty, herbaceous aroma, and comes in a dark or opaque bottle. Avoid cloudy products or those with a bitter smell.

• Its color should be dark brown to amber.
• It should have a fresh, nutty, herbaceous aroma.
• The bottle should be made of dark or opaque material that blocks light.

How to Store Perilla Oil

Store perilla oil in a sealed bottle in the refrigerator; because it is high in omega-3 (unsaturated fat), it turns rancid quickly if left at room temperature.

Using Perilla Oil in the Kitchen

Perilla oil is used most often as a dipping sauce with Korean grilled meats (bulgogi, samgyeopsal), drizzled over bibimbap, and in namul (vegetable salad) dishes, as an addition to or alternative to sesame oil.

Do Perilla Oil and Sesame Oil Serve the Same Purpose?

Partly. Both are finishing oils in Korean cuisine, but perilla oil tastes more herbaceous and green, while sesame oil has a more roasted, intense flavor. Some recipes use both.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can perilla oil be used for frying?

It is generally not recommended; because it is high in omega-3 (unsaturated fat), it deteriorates quickly at high heat, so cold or low-heat uses are preferred.

Do perilla oil and perilla leaves come from the same plant?

Yes. Both come from the same plant (Perilla frutescens), but one is the leaf (used as a vegetable or herb) and the other is seed oil; their uses differ.

Is perilla oil available in Türkiye?

It is not widely available; it may be found in Asian markets that sell Korean and Japanese products.