Akajiso (Red Perilla) Juice

2 liters water

300-400 grams red shiso leaves

800 grams sugar

30 grams citric acid

Bring the 2 liters of water to a boil. Rinse the shiso leaves and drain. Add the washed shiso leaves to the boiling water. Stir for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves lose their burgundy color. Turn heat off and remove the leaves, squeezing any excess liquid out. Add the citric acid and sugar and stir to dissolve. The liquid will turn a beautiful ruby red color. Let cool. Serve the juice diluted with water or sparkling mineral water.