Oregano
Description
Oregano is the dried leaves of the herbs Origanum vulgare or Lippia (Mexican). Both varieties have traditionally been harvested in the wild. The Mediterranean variety is closely related to marjoram and is very similar in physical appearance. "Oregano" means marjoram in Spanish, and although sometimes referred to as "wild marjoram," it is a different herb.
Oregano is the dried leaves of the herbs Origanum vulgare or Lippia (Mexican). Both varieties have traditionally been harvested in the wild. The Mediterranean variety is closely related to marjoram and is very similar in physical appearance. "Oregano" means marjoram in Spanish, and although sometimes referred to as "wild marjoram," it is a different herb.
Uses
Mediterranean oregano, which gained its popularity after American troops returned from World War II, is found in much of Italian cuisine: pizza, spaghetti sauces and other tomato-based sauces. Mexican oregano is found in chili powders and adds flavor to chili con carne and other Mexican dishes.
Origins
Turkey is a principal supplier of oregano. It is stronger-flavored and more bitter than the Greek variety. The Mexican type has a distinctively different flavor which is less minty, more hay-like and less bitter than the other sources.
Mediterranean oregano, which gained its popularity after American troops returned from World War II, is found in much of Italian cuisine: pizza, spaghetti sauces and other tomato-based sauces. Mexican oregano is found in chili powders and adds flavor to chili con carne and other Mexican dishes.
Origins
Turkey is a principal supplier of oregano. It is stronger-flavored and more bitter than the Greek variety. The Mexican type has a distinctively different flavor which is less minty, more hay-like and less bitter than the other sources.
Folklore
The word oregano is Greek-derived, and translated means, "joy of the mountain". Oregano was popular in ancient Egypt and Greece as a flavoring for vegetables, wines, meats and fish.
Color
Light to dark green
The word oregano is Greek-derived, and translated means, "joy of the mountain". Oregano was popular in ancient Egypt and Greece as a flavoring for vegetables, wines, meats and fish.
Color
Light to dark green
Flavor & Aroma
Strongly aromatic; slightly bitter
Sensory Profile
Oregano is generally described as possessing a strongly aromatic, camphoraceous aroma and a slightly bitter, pungent flavor. This pungent flavor is composed of earthy/musty, green, hay and minty notes. The spice imparts a slightly astringent mouthfeel.
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