Shiso goes two-tone: one leaf, two aromatic profiles to discover
Shiso is an aromatic plant native to East Asia, belonging to the Lamiaceae family, the same as mint and basil. It is used in a variety of culinary preparations, thanks to its complex aromatic profile and its unique ability to adapt to different preparations.
Koppert Cress's passion for Shiso began almost as early as the company itself, a plant astonishing in its aroma, nutritional richness, and versatility. So much so that, in addition to the family's products already in the catalog, a new ingredient unique in intensity and color has just arrived on the market: Shiso Leaves Bicolor, which combines the characteristics of green and purple shiso.
Green and purple shiso in a single leaf
The fresh, aniseed notes of green shiso combine with the deeper, earthier spiciness of purple shiso, resulting in a bold flavor profile with notes of mint and anise, enriched with nuances of cumin, nutmeg, licorice, and a subtle bitter note.
In Shiso Leaves Bicolor, the appearance is as striking as the taste, with the combination of green and purple on both edges of the leaf giving dishes greater contrast and a strong visual impact.
Shiso Bicolor, an ingredient for dishes and cocktails
Bicolored shiso leaves are a true all-rounder, their flavor complementing a wide variety of dishes. They are extremely versatile and can be used in fish and meat dishes, vegetables, spicy Korean dishes, desserts, and cocktails. They're also excellent in pestos, tempura, and marinades.
They can be used both raw and cooked, or used for infusions and low-temperature cooking, with aromatic notes that emerge differently depending on the pairing and the intensity you want to give to the preparation.
From decoration to gourmet dishes: the possibilities in the kitchen
The compact size also offers maximum flexibility: from decorative uses or in wraps to refined seafood creations, gourmet dishes, and signature cocktails. Here, the best of both worlds merges, with the flavors of both green and purple varieties. It all depends on how you use Shiso Leaves Bicolor: a surprising and versatile ingredient that complements any dish perfectly and makes you feel right at home.
Shiso, origins and characteristics of the aromatic plant
Shiso leaves have always been used both for their heady and aromatic taste in cooking and in traditional Chinese medicine due to their numerous beneficial and anti-poisonous properties.
Koppert Cress's Shiso Leaves Bicolor have already received great praise from professionals for their unique appearance and flavor, inviting experimentation. Freshness, spicy flavor, aromaticity, and exclusive appearance: all in a single leaf.
