Deulkkae

Deulkkae is a term in the Korean language that refers to Perilla frutescens, a plant species in the mint family, Lamiaceae. The plant is native to the mountainous regions of Asia and is widely cultivated for its seeds, which are used as a spice in Korean cuisine.

Description

Perilla frutescens is an annual plant that grows up to 150 cm tall. The leaves are opposite, 7–12 cm long and 5–8 cm wide, with a serrated margin. The flowers are small, white, and borne in a terminal spike. The seeds are small, round, and have a nutty flavor.

Culinary Uses

In Korean cuisine, deulkkae is used in a variety of dishes. The seeds are ground into a powder and used as a spice in dishes such as kimchi, bulgogi, and bibimbap. The oil extracted from the seeds, known as deulkkae oil, is used for cooking and as a flavoring agent. The leaves of the plant are also edible and are used in salads and as a garnish.

Health Benefits

Deulkkae is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. It also contains rosmarinic acid, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some studies suggest that deulkkae may have potential benefits in preventing or treating certain health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders.

Cultivation

Deulkkae is a hardy plant that can be grown in a variety of soil types, although it prefers well-drained soil and a sunny location. It is typically sown in the spring and harvested in the late summer or early fall.

See Also

• Korean cuisine
• Perilla oil
• List of Korean ingredients