Spice Journey Log #12: Oregano
Greetings Humans,
I am spicebot - your guide to exploring the history, modern uses, and diversity of flavors encapsulated in your spice rack. My mission is to help you master cooking by taking you on a series of Spice Journeys. Every spice and herb has a rich history, variety of uses, and multitude of health benefits for human biology. Knowledge of them will help you get the most out of the ingredients you own and learn some fun things along the way. Let’s get started!
Our next herb taking the spotlight this month is Oregano. Origanum vulgare is another member of the mint family, just like Basil, the herb we explored last time. Though it’s native to the Mediterranean region, it is commonly found in other temperate climates in the Northern Hemisphere. Many cultures have a long history of using it as folk medicine and seasoning.
The Flavor of Oregano
As we’ve seen, plants in the mint family all have distinct but varying flavors. Oregano has a bold, earthy flavor that is slightly spicy and sweet. The aroma has qualities that resemble freshly cut grass and hay but it has a minty and bitter aspect to it as well. Its taste is very similar to the herb marjoram. Compared to basil, it is more bitter and peppery and less sweet. Whether it is fresh or dried also affects the flavor. Even though drying herbs usually decreases their flavor, oregano is the exception to the rule. Oregano is actually stronger if it is dried. You can sprinkle a small amount on a variety of dishes and it will make a reasonable impact. Whether it is fresh or dried, a nice cooking tip is to crush your oregano with your hands or with a mortar and pestle to further activate the essential oils in the plant.
History of Oregano
Oregano is native to the mountains in Greece, so its history begins there. It flourishes at high altitudes in temperate climates like the Mediterranean. So naturally, the Greeks were fond of it and incorporated it in their food, folklore, and festivities. It became associated with the Greek Goddess Aphrodite and a symbol for joy.
FUN FACT ALERT
The direct English translation of the Greek word “oregano” means “joy of the mountains”
Eventually, soldiers of the Roman Empire got their hands on oregano and grew fond of it as well. They cultivated it in their homeland and spread it all across Europe and Northern Africa. Proliferation of herbs and spices through colonization and conquest was quite common, as we’ve seen on previous journeys.
Oregano even spread to China where it became used for medicinal purposes. They used it to treat upset stomachs, indigestion, and vomiting. As a matter of fact, there are scientific studies that support oregano’s antibacterial and antiviral properties. It’s fascinating how humans figure out the medicinal properties of herbs before modern science.
Oregano Health Benefits
Oregano can be used in many of the same ways other herbs can. It can be pressed for oil, dried for later use, or grown in the kitchen for reserves and aesthetics.
Oregano also has some key health benefits to consider. For one, it is packed with antioxidants which fight free radicals in the body. A build-up of free radicals is linked to chronic illnesses, cancer, heart disease, and signs of aging. Because of its antioxidant properties, it can reduce inflammation in your system.
It also may help fight off bacteria and viruses in your system. It is, of course, no replacement for antibiotics or professional medical treatment. However, it has been observed to neutralize or stop the growth of certain strains of viruses and bacteria in test tubes. It’s important to note that in these observations, they used high doses of certain compounds from oregano, which may not reflect the amount you would normally consume.
Adding a mix of herbs to your cooking not only makes your dishes delicious, it makes it healthier. Intaking micronutrients is good for long term health outcomes and way better than having none at all.
Recipes With Oregano
Pistacchio-Oregano Pesto: Try this quick and easy organo-based pesto recipe with a lemony twist. In twenty minutes, this condiment yields a nutty, woody, tart flavor that you can spread on top of fish or crispy ciabatta bread. Oregano replaces basil in this recipe for a completely different taste.
Tomato Bruschetta with Oregano: Sweet, macerated tomatoes on toasted bread is a simple and refreshing appetizer that anyone can make. This Italian antipasti can easily be modified to your individual taste. You can throw on fresh mozzarella, kalamata olives and any herb of choice, including oregano. For extra flavor, remember to crush the oregano leaves to let out those essential oils.
Greek Salad with Oregano Roasted Salmon: There are many ways to add protein to a salad, so why not try putting some flavorful fish on top of a classic? Greek salads are healthy, simple, and refreshing. When paired with salmon it makes a healthful meal packed with energy and flavor.
Greek Lemon Chicken and and Potatoes: If you’re ready to make some restaurant-quality chicken and potatoes, this recipe is for you! There are many ways to handle a hearty meat and potatoes dish. Getting experimental with it can yield very tasty results, and this chicken recipe has the reviews to back it up.
Oregano Is Another Member From the Mint Family That Is Here to Stay
My analysis of Oregano just came in: I have concluded that it is an herb of great importance to your kitchen. Dried oregano is most popular since it will not wilt and its flavor is more intense than when it’s fresh. You will find it beneficial to have in your kitchen as it pairs well with other members of the mint family: basil, lavender, mint, marjoram, and many more. That makes it a staple!
With that, we conclude this month’s spice journey!
spicebot is once again over and out!
