Perilla Oil - What It Is, How to Buy It, and How to Use It
A nutty, aromatic elixir that infuses East Asian cuisine with its distinctive herbaceous charm.
Curated by the Cibarious Editorial Team ยท Last reviewed: november 2025
Curated by the Cibarious Editorial Team
Last reviewed: november 2025
Perilla Oil
Nutritional values are database estimates.
- 884 kcal
- calories
- 0 g
- protein
- 100 g
- fat
- 0 g
- carb.
Cost: Moderate
Generally moderate, can be more expensive in specialty stores.
Flavor: Nutty and herbaceous with a slightly pungent, grassy finish.
Texture: Light and smooth, coating the palate with a subtle richness.
Recipes: Korean BibimbapโขShiso Salad DressingโขStir-fried NoodlesโขPerilla KimchiโขMarinades
Perilla Oil
Nutritional values are database estimates.
- 884 kcal
- calories
- 0 g
- protein
- 100 g
- fat
- 0 g
- carb.
Cost: Moderate
Generally moderate, can be more expensive in specialty stores.
Other Names: Korean Sesame Oil Alternative, Green Oil
Flavor: Nutty and herbaceous with a slightly pungent, grassy finish.
Texture: Light and smooth, coating the palate with a subtle richness.
Recipes: Korean BibimbapโขShiso Salad DressingโขStir-fried NoodlesโขPerilla KimchiโขMarinades
Even gastronauts make mistakes sometimes! Cibarious aims for accuracy, but please always check mission-critical intel like allergens and substitutions. See our Terms of Use & Editorial Policy.
Even gastronauts make mistakes sometimes! Cibarious aims for accuracy, but please always check mission-critical intel like allergens and substitutions. Nutritional values are database estimates. See our Terms of Use & Editorial Policy.
Perilla oil might be the most flavorful Asian seed oil you've never heard of. Perhaps you're a Korean food enthusiast curious about that distinctive nutty-licorice note in your favorite banchan, a health-conscious cook looking for omega-rich alternatives to olive oil, or simply intrigued by this aromatic oil's rising popularity in global cuisine.
This guide will walk you through everything from selecting the finest cold-pressed varieties to properly storing this delicate oil that sits at the intersection of culinary delight and wellness.
Not sure if you need the full story? Read on for the essentials, or dive deeper if you're ready to become a perilla oil aficionado.
๐ Jump to the Deep Dive
๐ Skip the appetizer and head straight for the main course? Jump to our deep dive if you're already familiar with the basics and want the juicy details.
You can also jump to any section using the table of contents or continue reading below for the essential guide.
Need bigger text?
Click the to adjust your reading size.
Because good taste always deserves comfortable reading.
๐ Essential Perilla Oil Guide
๐ฐ What is Perilla Oil?
Perilla oil has been a cornerstone of East Asian cuisine for centuries, particularly in Korea, Japan, and parts of China. Traditionally extracted from the seeds of the Perilla frutescens plant (also known as shiso, deulkkae, or Chinese basil), this oil was not only valued for its distinctive flavor but also for its medicinal properties in traditional Asian medicine.
There are primarily two types of perilla oil available: cold-pressed and toasted. Cold-pressed perilla oil maintains a lighter color and more subtle flavor profile, making it ideal for dressings and finishing dishes. Toasted perilla oil undergoes heat during processing, resulting in a deeper amber color and more intense nutty, roasted flavor that's perfect for marinades and cooking.
๐ญ Where is Perilla Oil Produced?
Perilla oil is primarily produced in East Asia, where the perilla plant thrives in temperate climates with well-drained soil. The cultivation methods significantly impact qualityโtraditional small-batch production typically yields superior oil compared to industrial processing. The careful selection of seeds and the pressing method dramatically influence the oil's flavor profile, aroma, and nutritional content.
The global production is concentrated in a few key regions known for their distinctive approaches:
Biggest Producers
- South Korea โ Known for traditional stone-milling techniques that preserve flavor
- Japan โ Focuses on cold-pressing methods that maintain subtle flavor notes
- China โ Largest volume producer with both artisanal and industrial production
Not all perilla oils deliver the same quality or flavor profileโregional variations create distinct characteristics:
Best Quality Perilla Oil
- Korean Deulkkae โ Often considered the gold standard, especially from Gyeongbuk province. Look for "Chamki" or "Deulkkae" on the label, indicating authentic Korean perilla oil.
- Japanese Egoma โ Known for its lighter, more delicate flavor profile. Premium versions are labeled "Ichiban Shibori" (first press).
- Taiwanese Perilla โ Often organic and cold-pressed, with a balance between nutty and herbal notes.
The winner: Why Korean perilla oil reigns supreme in the culinary world comes down to the country's traditional processing methods. Korean producers often use stone mills and low temperatures to extract oil, preserving the delicate flavor compounds and nutritional benefits. The country's mountainous terrain and four distinct seasons create ideal growing conditions for perilla plants, resulting in seeds with higher oil content and stronger flavor profiles. Korean producers have also perfected the art of toasting the seeds to varying degrees, creating complex flavor profiles that range from subtly nutty to intensely roasted.
๐ฆ Perilla Oil: How It Comes to You
Perilla oil comes in various forms suited to different culinary applications:
- ๐ฐ Cold-Pressed Oil โ Best for dressings, dips, and finishing dishes
- ๐ฅ Toasted Oil โ Ideal for marinades, stir-fries, and recipes requiring robust flavor
- ๐ฑ Organic Perilla Oil โ Premium option with cleaner flavor and fewer pesticides
- ๐งด Flavored Perilla Oils โ Infused with garlic, chili, or herbs for specialized applications
- ๐ Perilla Oil Supplements โ Concentrated forms used for health benefits rather than cooking
๐ฑ Seasonal Product Guide
While perilla oil itself is available year-round, the quality can vary based on harvest seasons. The freshness of the seeds directly impacts the oil's flavor and nutritional profile.
- ๐ธ Spring โ Perilla plants are typically sown, not a prime time for oil production.
- ๐ Summer โ Plants grow vigorously, but seeds aren't ready yet; not peak oil season.
- ๐ Fall โ Harvest season for perilla seeds, making late autumn the ideal time to purchase newly-pressed oil with optimal flavor and nutrition.
- โ Winter โ Traditional pressing season in Korea and Japan; fresh winter-pressed oils are considered superior and maintain peak flavor through spring.
๐ง How to Choose the Best Perilla Oil
Look beyond the bottleโquality perilla oil demands attention to color, aroma, and production methods to ensure you're getting the real deal, not a flavorless imitation.
Appearance
- Color โ Premium cold-pressed should be light golden to amber; toasted varieties should be deep amber to brown with excellent clarity.
- Viscosity โ Quality oil has a medium-bodied flow, neither too thin nor excessively thick.
- Sediment โ Small-batch, traditional oils may have minimal natural sediment; excessive cloudiness may indicate poor filtration.
Aroma
- Nutty complexity โ Quality perilla oil has a distinctive nutty aroma with grassy, licorice-like or anise notes.
- Cap test โ Open the bottle and sniff immediatelyโfresh oil releases a burst of toasty, complex aroma.
- Rancid smell? โ Any fishy, painty, or cardboard-like aromas indicate oxidation; avoid these bottles.
Texture
- Smoothness โ Should feel silky and clean on the palate, not greasy or sticky.
- Mouthfeel โ Quality oil leaves a pleasant coating that lingers briefly without feeling heavy.
- Bitterness? โ Excessive bitterness or astringency may indicate poor quality seeds or improper processing.
๐ Sensory Profile
Perilla oil delivers a captivating sensory experience that begins with a pronounced nutty aroma reminiscent of toasted sesame but with distinctive licorice and anise notes. The flavor progresses from an initial grassy brightness through a complex middle of roasted nuts and umami, finally finishing with a subtle peppery kick that gently warms the throat. Its silky mouthfeel coats the palate without heaviness, while leaving a pleasantly astringent finish that cleanses rather than overwhelms.
๐งญ Other Factors to Consider
When seeking the finest perilla oil, these additional considerations can make the difference between a mediocre bottle and a kitchen essential.
- Brand reputation โ Established Korean and Japanese producers often maintain stricter quality control; look for brands with generations of experience
- Processing method โ Cold-pressed oils preserve more nutrients and delicate flavors; look for "unrefined" on the label
- Packaging โ Dark glass bottles protect the oil from light damage; avoid plastic containers which can affect flavor
- Certification โ Organic certification ensures the oil is free from pesticides, which can concentrate during processing
- Pressing date โ Fresh-pressed oil (under 6 months) delivers optimal flavor; some premium bottles include harvest dates
๐ง How to Store Perilla Oil Properly
Protect your perilla oil investment by storing it correctlyโthis delicate oil deteriorates quickly when exposed to heat, light, or air.
- Fresh, unopened bottles โ Store in a cool, dark cupboard away from heat sources for up to 1 year.
- Opened bottles โ Refrigerate after opening to prevent oxidation; use within 3-6 months.
- Premium toasted oils โ These have slightly better shelf stability but still benefit from refrigeration.
- Bulk purchases โ Divide into smaller bottles to minimize air exposure each time you use it.
๐ Final Thoughts on Perilla Oil
Perilla oil stands out as a culinary treasure that deserves more recognition outside its East Asian homeland. Often misunderstood as simply "another Asian oil," it delivers a distinctive nutty-licorice profile that can transform everyday dishes into memorable experiences. Whether drizzled over steamed rice, whisked into a vinaigrette, or used to finish a bowl of noodles, perilla oil adds depth and character that few other oils can match.
For the best experience, choose cold-pressed Korean varieties, store them properly in the refrigerator, and don't be afraid to use them as finishing oils where their complex flavor can truly shine. Your taste buds will thank you. ๐ฑ
๐ How to Buy Perilla Oil: Physical & Online Shopping
๐ What to buy
Look for cold-pressed, unrefined, 100 % perilla seed oilโno blends. The color should be a deep jade with a nutty, grassy aroma that flirts with mint and sesame. Avoid anything labeled โperilla flavor oilโ; thatโs usually neutral canola with a drop of extract.
Preferred Varieties by Region
- South Korea โ Deulgireum (๋ค๊ธฐ๋ฆ) from Gangwon-doโmountain-grown seeds give a punchier, almost piney scent and deeper green hue.
- Japan โ Egoma-abura (่่ก้บปๆฒน) from Hokkaidoโslightly milder, more floral, ideal for finishing sashimi or cold noodles.
- China โ Zวsลซ yรณu (็ดซ่ๆฒน) from Jilin or Hebeiโoften sold in small tins; nuttier, slightly peppery, great for stir-fry but watch for double-roasted versions that darken the flavor.
What to Look For
- Labels in Korean, Japanese, or Chinese with โ๋ค๊ธฐ๋ฆโ, โใใใพๆฒนโ, โ็ดซ่ๆฒนโ are usually authentic single-origin oils.
- Cold-pressed / first press clearly statedโheat-treated oil loses the volatile perillaldehyde that gives the signature aroma.
- Dark glass or tin; light kills the grassy notes and turns the oil rancid fast.
- Red flag: if the oil is pale straw or smells like plain canola, skip it.
Use-Based Recommendations
- Best for Raw Use โ Gangwon-do deulgireumโbright, minty, perfect for bibimbap or a last-second drizzle on avocados.
- Best for Cooking โ Chinese double-roastedโstands up to medium heat, gives kimchi fried rice a smoky edge.
- Budget Pick โ Generic Korean 500 ml plastic bottlesโaround โฌ8โ10, decent for marinades or bulk kimchi seasoning.
๐ฐ Whatโs a Fair Price?
- USA / Canada: $8โ12 for 250 ml, $16โ20 for 500 ml. Anything above $25 for 250 ml is highway robbery unless itโs a single-estate artisan label.
- EU: โฌ6โ9 per 250 ml in Asian groceries, โฌ12โ15 in health-food chains. UK prices mirror EU.
- Australia / NZ: AUD $10โ14 for 250 ml; NZD $12โ16. Watch for โomega-3 enrichedโ marketingโperilla already has 60 % ฮฑ-linolenic acid, so thatโs just fluff.
- Red flag: If a bottle is suspiciously cheap (< $5 for 250 ml), itโs likely cut with soybean or rapeseed oil.
๐งบ Local Shops & Markets
- USA: H Mart, Mitsuwa, 99 Ranch, Kukje Market (West Coast), Assi Plaza (East Coast). In NYC Chinatown, Hong Kong Supermarket keeps it near the sesame oils.
- Canada: T&T Supermarket, H Mart Toronto, PAT Central (Toronto/Montreal), Hannam Chain (Vancouver).
- UK: Oseyo, H Mart New Malden, Japan Centre (London), Wing Yip (Birmingham/Manchester).
- Germany: Go Asia (Berlin, Munich), Yam Asia Shop (Frankfurt).
- Australia: Tokyo Mart (Sydney), Kimโs Mart (Melbourne), Yuenโs Market (Perth).
๐ Online Options
- USA: Amazon (search โKorean perilla oilโ or โdeulgireumโ), H Mart online, Weee!, YamiBuy.
- Canada: T&T online, H Mart Canada, Yamibuy.ca.
- UK / EU: Oseyo.co.uk, Japan Centre, Sous Chef UK, Asian Market Online (Germany).
- Australia / NZ: Asian Grocery Store Online, Hikoco, Koryo Mart.
Tips for Ordering Perilla Oil from Abroad
- Check Shipping Costs โ Bottles are heavy glass; bundle two or three to dilute the per-bottle freight.
- Check Freshness Guarantees โ Aim for < 6 months from harvest date; the oil oxidizes in 9โ12 months once opened.
- Buy in Bulk โ 500 ml tins cost 30 % less per ml and keep fine in the freezerโpour into a small dark bottle for daily use.
- Check Customer Reviews โ Look for photos of the Korean or Japanese labelโif the review shows English-only stickers, it may be a re-labeler.
๐ Where to Look
North America (NA)
- United States โ H Mart, Mitsuwa, 99 Ranch, Amazon, Weee!, local Korean co-ops in LA, NYC, Chicago.
- Canada โ T&T Supermarket, H Mart, PAT Central, Amazon.ca, Yamibuy.ca.
- Mexico โ Super K-Market (Mexico City), Tokyo Market (Guadalajara), Mercado Libre for online orders.
Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA)
- European Union โ Go Asia, Yam Asia Shop, Sous Chef, Amazon.de, Asian Market Online.
- United Kingdom โ Oseyo, Japan Centre, Sous Chef, Amazon UK.
- Middle East โ Carrefour UAE (select branches), LuLu Hypermarket, Namshi Groceries (UAE), iHerb ships region-wide.
- Africa โ Shoprite (South Africa, larger cities), Asian Town Supermarket (Nigeria), Jumia for online.
Asia-Pacific (APAC)
- Oceania โ Coles / Woolworths (select stores), Tokyo Mart, Koryo Mart, Asian Grocery Store Online.
- East Asia โ Any Korean or Japanese supermarketโyouโre spoiled for choice.
- Southeast Asia โ Villa Market (Thailand), Don Quijote (Malaysia), Tokopedia (Indonesia).
- South Asia โ Natureโs Basket, iHerb India, Amazon India.
Latin America (LATAM)
- Central & South America โ Hipermercado Jumbo (Chile), Supermercado Wong (Peru), Mercado Libre everywhere.
- Caribbean โ PriceSmart (Trinidad, Jamaica), Asian Foods Co. (Barbados), Amazon ships via DHL.
๐ If You Canโt Find It
Canโt get the real thing? Toasted sesame oil + a drop of shiso oil (if you can find shiso leaves) mimics the nutty-minty punch. Or chia seed oil for the grassy omega-3 notes, though it lacks the sesame-like depth. When all else fails, order from Korean or Japanese e-commerceโeven small importers on Etsy often ship worldwide.
๐ง Deep Dive: Perilla Oil Beyond the Basics
๐ช Culinary Techniques & Handling
- Finishing Oil โ Add a teaspoon after cooking to preserve delicate flavors that disappear with heat
- Controlling Intensity โ Mix with neutral oils like grapeseed to temper its strong flavor in dressings
- Common Mistakes โ Overheating causes bitterness; avoid prolonged cooking above medium heat
- Infusion Use โ Excellent base for herb-infused oils; try with garlic, chili, or citrus zest
- Usage Frequency โ Not ideal for repeated heating; best added toward the end of cooking
- Regional Twist โ In Korea, perilla oil is often drizzled over bibimbap or mixed into namul (vegetable side dishes) for a nutty finish. Japanese chefs tend to use it more sparingly in dressings for its subtle anise notes. Chinese regional cuisines, particularly in Sichuan, sometimes incorporate it into spicy cold dishes where it balances chili heat with its cooling properties.
๐ฐ How Perilla Oil Compares
| Ingredient | Intensity | Flavor Profile | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Perilla Oil | High | Nutty, anise-like, grassy | Finishing, dressings, marinades |
| Sesame Oil | High | Deeply nutty, toasty, umami | Finishing, Asian cooking, marinades |
| Walnut Oil | Medium | Mild nutty, slight bitterness | Salads, baking, finishing |
| Flaxseed Oil | Medium-low | Grassy, slightly fishy | Cold applications, supplements |
This comparison helps position perilla oil within the broader family of specialty culinary oils, highlighting its distinctive anise notes and intensity that sets it apart from more common nutty oils.
๐ Substitutions: Perilla Oil's Stand-Ins
When you can't find perilla oil but still want that distinctive flavor profile:
- Toasted Sesame Oil โ Replicates the nutty intensity but lacks the anise notes; use in cooked dishes where subtle differences matter less.
- Walnut Oil + Star Anise โ Combines to approximate both flavor components; infuse walnut oil with star anise then strain for best results.
- Camellia Oil with Shiso Leaves โ Creates a makeshift version that captures some of the herbal character of perilla.
| Substitute | Ratio | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Toasted Sesame Oil | 2:3 | Use less than called for; more intensely nutty |
| Walnut Oil + Fennel Extract | 1:1 + dash | Closest match to both nutty and anise-like notes |
๐ฅ Pairings: Perilla Oil's Best Friends
Perilla oil's distinctive nutty-licorice character creates magical flavor combinations:
- Rice Vinegar โ The acidity balances perilla's richness while amplifying its aromatic qualities; perfect in simple dressings for cold noodles or cucumber salads.
- Soy Sauce โ Creates a umami-rich partnership that's greater than the sum of its parts; drizzle the combination over steamed vegetables or tofu.
- Chili โ The cooling quality of perilla tempers heat while its nuttiness adds depth; excellent in spicy marinades or dipping sauces.
๐ฌ Why Perilla Oil Works: The Science & The Magic
Perilla oil owes its distinctive properties to a unique composition of compounds that deliver both flavor and potential health benefits.
- Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) โ Contains up to 64% ALA, an omega-3 fatty acid that gives perilla oil both its health benefits and part of its distinctive flavor
- Rosmarinic acid โ A polyphenol that contributes to its antioxidant properties and subtle herbal notes
- Perillaldehyde โ The compound responsible for the distinctive licorice-mint aroma, especially present in cold-pressed versions
- Tocopherols โ Rich in vitamin E compounds that both preserve the oil and offer antioxidant benefits
๐ Cultural Significance
- Traditional Korean Medicine โ Used for centuries as a remedy for respiratory ailments and to "warm the body" during cold winter months
- Japanese Ceremonial Use โ Featured in Buddhist temple cuisine (shลjin ryลri) where animal products are avoided; valued for its rich flavor and nutritional profile
- Lunar New Year Traditions โ In Korea, perilla oil is used to prepare special dishes during Seollal (Lunar New Year) as a symbol of prosperity
- Colonial Impact โ During Japanese occupation of Korea (1910-1945), production was controlled and redirected to Japan, creating lingering cultural sensitivity
- Modern Resurgence โ Korean diaspora communities have helped introduce perilla oil globally, preserving traditional usage while adapting to new cuisines
- Health Movement Adoption โ Often mischaracterized as "Asian flaxseed oil," reducing its cultural context to a simplified health supplement
๐บ๏ธ Global Footprint
Perilla oil's journey extends far beyond its East Asian origins. In Korean households worldwide, it remains essential for authentic banchan (side dishes) and as a finishing touch for soups and stews. Japanese culinary traditions employ it more subtly in dressings and marinades, often paired with citrus. The Chinese diaspora, particularly from Sichuan and northeastern regions, use it in cold noodle dishes and as a medicinal food. Recently, Western health food markets have embraced perilla oil as an omega-3 supplement, while innovative chefs experiment with its distinctive flavor in fusion cuisinesโfrom perilla oil ice cream in California to perilla-dressed salads in European fine dining.
๐ Beyond the Drizzle: Unexpected Uses of Perilla Oil
- Natural Wood Polish โ Its drying properties make it excellent for conditioning wooden cutting boards and utensils
- Hair Treatment โ Used in traditional Korean hair care for adding shine and strength to damaged hair
- Leather Conditioning โ The same properties that make it a good wood polish work well on natural leather goods
- Aromatic Candles โ Some artisanal candle makers use it for its distinctive scent profile when burned
๐ต๏ธ Perilla Oil Secrets: Fun Facts & Hidden Wonders
- Ancient Korean texts describe perilla oil as "the oil of scholars" because it was used to make paper lanterns burn brighter and longer for nighttime studying
- The Korean name "deulkkae" derives from the sound the seeds make when shaken in their dried seed pods
- In Japanese folklore, perilla plants were believed to predict weatherโwhen the undersides of leaves became visible in the wind, rain was coming ๐ง๏ธ
๐ Cultural & Literary References
- Yi Sugwang (Korean scholar) โ "The fragrance of perilla oil brings the mind to clarity when the lamp burns through the night."
- Edo Period Records โ Mentioned in Japanese medicinal texts as "egoma abura," prescribed for respiratory ailments
- Modern Media โ Featured prominently in the Korean film "Little Forest" (2018), showing traditional oil pressing methods
These references demonstrate how perilla oil has transcended its role as a simple cooking ingredient to become a cultural touchstone woven into the fabric of East Asian identity.
๐ฑ Ethical & Environmental Considerations
- Small-Scale Production โ Traditional methods require more labor but result in superior quality and support local farming communities.
- Organic Certification โ Increasingly common as health-conscious consumers recognize that perilla plants can absorb environmental toxins.
- Seasonal Harvesting โ Traditional harvesting respects natural growing cycles and reduces need for chemical interventions.
- Sustainable Practices โ Perilla plants require relatively little water and can grow in marginal soils, making them environmentally friendly crops.
- Biodiversity Support โ The flowers attract pollinators, making perilla an excellent companion plant in traditional Asian farming.
- Regional Variations โ Korean producers often maintain heirloom seed varieties, preserving genetic diversity threatened by industrial agriculture.
- Zero-Waste Potential โ After pressing, seed cakes can be used as livestock feed or fertilizer, creating a closed-loop system.
- Labor Concerns โ Hand-harvesting remains common in premium production, raising questions about fair compensation in some regions.
โป๏ธ Sustainability Score
Perilla oil generally earns positive marks for sustainability. The plant requires minimal irrigation compared to other oil crops, with a water footprint roughly 30% smaller than sunflower oil production. Traditional farming methods often avoid heavy machinery, reducing carbon emissions. However, increased demand has led to some industrialized production in China, where chemical fertilizers and pesticides are more common. The most sustainable options come from certified organic, small-batch producers in Korea and Japanโlook for these if you want oil that's as kind to the planet as it is to your palate. Think of it as the Toyota Prius of culinary oils: efficient, practical, and quietly impressive.
Now Send Perilla Oil Down the Line
Good cooks don't guess. They share, too!
Help other home chefs discover perilla oil and its secrets.
Recipes with Perilla Oil
Now Send Perilla Oil Down the Line
Good cooks don't guess. They share, too!
Help other home chefs discover perilla oil and its secrets.
Recipes with Perilla Oil
Sources & Further Reading
Our comprehensive source citations and further reading recommendations are currently being compiled. This section will include academic references, culinary texts, and authoritative resources that informed this article. Check back soon for a curated list of sources to deepen your understanding of this ingredient.