Best Shiso Substitutes
What Can I Use Instead of Shiso in a Recipe?
Use the same amount as the original. Nearly identical flavor profile to shiso with the same subtle anise and cooling properties. Use 1:1 as the closest substitute; availability varies by region.
Ran out of Shiso mid-recipe? Don't panic — you have options. This guide covers 5 tested Shiso substitutes that actually work in cooking and baking, complete with exact ratios so you don't have to guess. Whether you need to save money at the store, there's a swap here for you. The top pick is Perilla (korean) — it's the closest match for most recipes. Nearly identical flavor profile to shiso with the same subtle anise and cooling properties. Use 1:1 as the closest substitute; availability varies by region.
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Get ratios for Shiso →All Shiso Substitutes (5 options)
Nearly identical flavor profile to shiso with the same subtle anise and cooling properties. Use 1:1 as the closest substitute; availability varies by region.
Offers aromatic brightness but with peppery, slightly sweet notes instead of shiso's delicate umami. Works well in tempura and as a fried garnish.
Provides herbal freshness and aromatic character but is more assertive and citrusy. Use sparingly in cooked dishes; best for raw applications like garnish.
Dehydrated form is much more concentrated. Crumble and rehydrate briefly, or use as garnish.
Provides similar cooling freshness but lacks shiso's subtle anise note. Best for garnish and salads where the herbaceous quality matters more than authentic flavor.
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Tips for Substituting Shiso
For most recipes, Perilla (korean) is the best starting point. Nearly identical flavor profile to shiso with the same subtle anise and cooling properties. Use 1:1 as the closest substitute; availability varies by region. Watching your grocery budget? Mint is the most wallet-friendly swap and does a solid job in most uses. If you're unsure which Shiso substitute to use, think about why the original is in the recipe: flavor, texture, moisture, or binding? Choose the substitute that best matches that function.
Common Questions About Shiso Substitutes
The best substitute for Shiso is Perilla (korean). Use the same amount. Nearly identical flavor profile to shiso with the same subtle anise and cooling properties. Use 1:1 as the closest substitute; availability varies by region.
This guide lists 5 Shiso alternatives. The best one depends on your recipe, dietary needs, and what you have on hand — check the substitution cards above for details on each.
Also commonly substituted
Related ingredients
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