Oregano

Oregano is a robust herb known for its earthy and slightly bitter flavor with a hint of mint. While it is available year-round, fresh oregano is at its peak during the summer months. Oregano is a key ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, particularly Greek and Italian dishes, and is also used in Mexican and South American cooking. It can be used fresh or dried and is commonly added to sauces, marinades, dressings, and as a seasoning for meats and vegetables.

Oregano Synonyms

Wild marjoram
Origanum

Oregano Substitutes

Different Forms/Types of Oregano

Dried

Oregano leaves that have been dehydrated, which concentrates the flavors, making it more potent than fresh. Dried oregano is suitable for longer cooking processes.

Fresh

Oregano leaves picked straight from the plant, offering the most intense and vibrant flavor, ideal for use in fresh salads, marinades, and as a finishing herb.

Ground

Dried oregano leaves that have been ground into a fine powder, often used in spice blends and to season dishes evenly.

Infused Oils

Oils that have been flavored with oregano, either fresh or dried, used as a finishing oil for dishes to add a subtle oregano flavor.

How to Choose Oregano

When selecting fresh oregano, look for vibrant green leaves without any yellowing or wilting, which indicate freshness and quality. For dried oregano, choose brands that have a strong, aromatic scent when the container is opened, as this suggests the herb is still potent. Avoid purchasing ground oregano in bulk unless you cook with it frequently, as its flavor diminishes over time.

Cooking/Prep Tips for Oregano

Oregano is a robust herb with a peppery bite and a sweet, almost minty aroma. It's a key herb in Mediterranean cooking, and its potency can vary greatly depending on whether it's used fresh or dried. For intermediate and expert home cooks, it's important to note that dried oregano is often more flavorful than fresh, so it should be used in smaller quantities. Typically, one teaspoon of dried oregano is equivalent to one tablespoon of fresh. Oregano should be added early in the cooking process for dishes that cook for a while, allowing its flavors to meld and infuse the dish. However, for quick-cooking dishes, consider adding it near the end to preserve its flavor. Crushing dried oregano leaves between your fingers before adding them to your dish can help release their essential oils and enhance the herb's aroma and taste.

Shelf Life of Oregano

Fresh oregano should be wrapped in a slightly damp paper towel, placed in a plastic bag, and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Dried oregano should be kept in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain its flavor for up to six months. Ground oregano also requires storage in an airtight container away from heat and light. Infused oregano oils should be stored in a cool, dark place and used according to the expiration date on the bottle.

Recommended Brands for Oregano

dried oregano: McCormick

ground oregano: Simply Organic

infused oregano oils: Mantova

Cooking Techniques for Oregano

Baking: Oregano holds up well to baking and is often used in breads, pizzas, and casseroles. Its flavor can withstand the prolonged heat, making it a great choice for baked dishes.

Infusing: Oregano is excellent for infusing oils and vinegars, imparting its distinctive flavor into them. To infuse, heat the oil or vinegar with oregano at a low temperature for a period of time before straining.

Sautéing: Oregano can be sautéed with other aromatics to form the flavor base of a dish. When sautéing, it's best to add it early to the oil so it can infuse the fat with its flavor.