Steamed fish is a beloved dish in Vietnamese cuisine, prized for its ability to retain nutrients, tender sweetness, and low oil content. However, the lingering fishy odor often deters home cooks. While many rely on ginger, lemongrass, or dill to combat this, there’s a golden secret: perilla leaves.
Why Are Perilla Leaves So Effective at Eliminating Fishy Smells?
Perilla leaves have long been a staple herb in traditional Vietnamese cooking, adding flavor to countless dishes.
Beyond deodorizing, perilla leaves offer:
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Enhanced natural flavor: Their gentle fragrance complements the fish, creating a harmonious steamed dish.
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Digestive support: Eases protein digestion, preventing bloating.
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Immune-boosting nutrients: Packed with vitamins A, C, calcium, and iron to strengthen immunity.
How to Use Perilla Leaves When Steaming Fish
Maximize perilla’s benefits with these steps:
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Clean the fish thoroughly: Gut, remove gills, and rinse with salted water or ginger wine to eliminate slime.
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Prepare fresh perilla leaves: Select vibrant green leaves, wash, and gently bruise to release oils.
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Layer perilla leaves in the steamer:
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Line the steamer base.
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Stuff the fish cavity.
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Scatter leaves over the fish for even aroma distribution.
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Add complementary ingredients: Include shredded ginger, dill sprigs, or lemon slices for depth.
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Steam until just cooked: Avoid overcooking to preserve tenderness and natural sweetness.
The result? A fragrant, odor-free dish with perfectly infused flavors.
Best Fish Varieties to Steam with Perilla Leaves
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Snakehead Fish: Tender, boneless meat pairs beautifully with perilla and ginger.
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Mud Carp: Steamed with perilla and dill, it releases a distinctive aroma that masks fishiness.
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Carp: Whole-steamed with perilla-stuffed belly eliminates odors entirely.
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Tilapia: Affordable and versatile, perilla enhances its rustic charm.
Tips for Irresistible Steamed Fish
Elevate your dish further with:
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Marinate before steaming: Use salt, pepper, fish sauce, and rice wine for richer flavor.
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Add citrus slices: Lemon or kumquat enhances aroma and odor removal.
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Serve with dipping sauces: Ginger-garlic chili fish sauce or sweet and sour sauce completes the dish.
Affordable and readily available, perilla leaves are the secret weapon for flawless steamed fish. This Vietnamese home cook’s trick transforms meals into nutritious, aromatic feasts, making every family dinner irresistible.
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