Oregano is a basic ingredient in many Italian, Turkish, Greek, Aregentine, and Mexican cuisine. That said, it is a savory herb and will work with the same kinds of ingredients that get used along with oregano. Mexican oregano is a type of flowering plant that belongs to the verbena family thats native to Mexico, Southwest America, and Central America. Can You Use Water Instead of Milk for Pancakes? Profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking tips, and more. Much like wine, or woods used for smoking, depending on the region its grown in, it has a slightly different taste. Required fields are marked *. Heres what you need to know to keep each thriving throughout the growing season. It has even been used to flavor beer and cider. Cooking With Sea Salt: The Dos And Donts, Cooking With Turmeric: The Dos And Donts. You can use Mexican oregano for the same purposes as regular or common oregano. If the two were sandpaper, Mexican oregano would be like 80 grit and oregano would be like 200 grit. Although different in flavor, Mexican oregano and oregano share relatively similar care requirements. Dried oregano has an even stronger taste than fresh oregano, and is a common ingredient found in many pantries. It is woodsy, but its aroma is less strong. Mexican oregano is harvested from a flowering plant that is highly drought tolerant. Instagram: @Chef.Zee Pinterest | Twitter | Facebook | Snapchat: @ChefZeeCooksFor business inquiries please email: biz@chefzeecooks.com They will retain their properties if you store them properly in airtight containers and in a dark, dry place. Some may even have a slight cooling effect, though not nearly as potent as actual mint. The material on this site may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used, except with the prior written permission of Cond Nast. Youll notice the similarity, as Mexican oregano has citrus undertones that blend with its earthy flavor. Its flavor is described as being stronger and more earthy than that of Mediterranean oregano, and some say it has a citrusy flavor. Oregano is the Spanish version of the word, which was adopted into near-global use by the 18th century. Thymol, responsible for the thyme-like scent, has shown antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, antihyperlipidemic, antibacterial, antifungal, antiseptic and antitumor effects per this 2017 UAE study. Orders Placed M-F by 3:30pm ET Ship Same Day!1-888-762-8642. It can make an enjoyable cup of tea much like its cousin, lemon verbena. It is hard to know whether this is because its flavor is a better match for the American palate or because it was introduced to American households, decades before Mexican cuisine went mainstream. This content contains affiliate links. This fast grower quickly reaches a height of 6 to 18 inches and a width of three feet. Thymol is a chemical compound found in other herbs such as marjoram, wild bergamot, and thyme. All oregano, even Mexican oregano blends well with tomatoes and cucumber. Regular oregano is an Italian and Mediterranean spice with minty undertones. In addition, they are both peppery with a green, herbaceous aroma. It elevates the flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and bell peppers. Although these two herbs are called oregano, they are not quite alike. While there are many similarities between the two types of oregano, there are also some key differences that set them apart. Fajita Vs. Taco Seasoning How Do They Compare. Mexican oregano is known to many by various names such as Mexican marjoram, wild oregano, and even Mexican wild sage. You can store whats left of your fresh oregano leaves in the refrigerator. Mediterranean oregano comes from the Mediterranean, as you may have suspected, as well as western and southwestern Europe and Asia. Well, thats not really an accurate way of putting it. It is also peppery or citrusy and spicy. Or mix some fresh, dried, or ground oregano in olive oil and lemon. Regular Oregano | Cooking Tips | Made To Order | Chef Zee Cooks It has a strong flavor with sweet, minty, bitter, and peppery notes. Mexican oregano comes from the plant Lippia graveolens, while Mediterranean oregano comes from the plant Origanum vulgare. It can be used for purposes other than cooking, such as aromatherapy when used as an oil. Sopita/Chicken Bouillon Powder: https://amzn.to/2x9lwJeSopita/Chicken Bouillon Cubes 112ct: https://amzn.to/2x7QzFtSopita/Bouillon Cube 8ct: https://amzn.to/2OemLOIDominican Oregano: https://amzn.to/2x9lQI6Mortar \u0026 Pestle (Pilon): https://amzn.to/2NFEfXgCaldero 7.5 qt: https://amzn.to/2NBTBfdCaldero 29.6qt: https://amzn.to/2xadKilInstant Pot Pressure Cooker: https://amzn.to/2xdvNnBNinja Food Processor \u0026 Blender: https://amzn.to/2Nb3xgf*Please note that some of these links may be affiliate linksFollow me on social media! Whether youre using Mediterranean or Mexican oregano in your cooking, there are a few tips to keep in mind to get the most out of these flavorful herbs. Matthew Eads is a former US Marine, self-taught gourmet griller, andcookbook author. You can even find Mexican oregano used in t de pais, also called country tea.. Marjoram will also work as a substitute for Mediterranean oregano, or you can use thyme, basil, or sage. Mediterranean oregano is often a staple in grocery stores, but Mexican oregano may be harder to find. Notice the difference below. Each herb prefers certain foods; you can use Greek Oregano with tomatoes, sweet peppers, and eggplant. Note that even if they have a slightly similar flavor, they dont taste the same. Not all types of oregano have the same flavor. Get in touch with me any time at jimmy@ownthegrill.com. Not all types of oregano have the same flavor. Theres plenty of stories floating around about this but the truth is no one really knows for sure. Mexican oregano has a stronger, brighter flavor with citrus and floral notes and a hint of anise, while regular oregano, has an earthy, slightly bitter flavor and peppery notes. NPR. Greek oregano is part of the mint or Lamiaceae family, and Mexican oregano is part of the verbena or Verbenaceae family. Sorry but that is the only way I know to describe it. The Lippa being a descendant of the lemon verbena plant. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Substitute Cooking 2023 - All Right Reserved. Mexican oregano is very different. Mexican and Greek Oregano should be stored in a container with an airtight lid, in a cabinet or pantry that protects the herbs from heat and direct sunlight. It pairs well with grilled meats and stews, but thats not the only thing youll find it in. It is a member of the Verbenaceae family, along with the fruity herb lemon verbena. It has a licorice taste to it. Though they look similar with their flat leaves and purple flowers, Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) and oregano (Origanum vulgare) are different plants altogether. A most excellent feature of dried or ground oregano, whether common or Mexican oregano, is that they keep for a long time. However, you can find them all over the world. $28.99. Get it Mar 10 - 17. In a large pan, add olive oil and the blended sauce. Because these grass-like plants are cold hardy, you can even grow them in the fall. Those secondary flavor notes can vary depending on the variety and region where its grownTurkish, Greek, and Italian oregano, all subspecies of true oregano, are each a little different. Both types of oregano also have a long history of use in traditional medicine, with various cultures using them to treat everything from respiratory ailments to digestive issues. Locating Mexican oregano is a bigger challenge and youll probably need to visit a specialty grocer or Latin market. Rather than trying to decide a winner, it's better to keep each option at home and alternate depending on the cuisine. Try dried marjoram (also from the origanum family, but similar to Mexican oregano in its citrusy, floral ways) or dried verbena. What does NPK mean when it comes to fertilizing plants? Oreganos robust flavor profile allows it to work like bay leaves and stand up to extensive braising. You can use marjoram instead of Mexican oregano in sauces, soups, poultry, vegetables, and many other dishes. Mexican oregano is a flowering plant that belongs to the verbena family. They are not even in the same familythey are totally different. Restaurant recommendations you trust. Use it with lamb, beef, chicken, or combine it with olive oil as a base for your next Italian vinaigrette. That warm, pungent flavor found in true oregano is just a part of what Mexican oregano brings to the partyits those floral, citrus, licorice/anise notes that balance and complete each dish. Use oregano for your marinades, sauces, dips, vinaigrettes, and drizzles. Mexican oregano is often sold in dried form, and can lose its flavor over time if not stored properly. You can usually find Mexican oregano in dry form (as its often used) at Latin markets. Certified Piedmontese Review Healthy Beef Delivered to Your Doorstep. Marjoram has a slightly more citrusy top note and is often recommended as a better substitute for Mexican Oregano rather than Greek Oregano. This herb is a type of flowering plant and belongs to the mint family known as Lamiaceae. So whats the real difference between oregano and Mexican oregano? They are also known as Mediterranean oregano. This item: 2 Cuban Oregano Plants Live Mexican Mint Spanish Thyme Rooted 5 to 7 Inches Vegetables Planting Ornaments Perennial Garden Ready to Grow Pot. The flavor of Mexican oregano has a stronger savory component instead of the piney hint of rosemary-like flavor in true oregano, and its citrus accent might be more aromatic than in oregano. Mexican oregano and oregano come from unrelated plants even though they share a name. Greek Oregano, Origanum vulgare, is the herb commonly thought of in the US as Mediterranean oregano or just oregano. Learn about the history, flavor, benefits, and uses of herbs, spices, seasonings, and other cooking ingredients. Dominican Oregano is different than regular oregano and it's also known as Jamaican Oregano, Cuban Oregano, Oregano de la isla, Spanish Oregano, False Oregano and many more. Part of theCindermintfamily: PepperScale,SPICEography, andFiery Flavors. Heat and direct sunlight cause volatile oils to degrade and break down into the air around them in the jar. These appliances generate ambient heat when theyre in use. There are over 40 types of oregano. Keep reading to learn all about the many uses of Epsom salt for potted plants and garden beds you might just find yourself sprinkling it on your crops! Mexican oregano has a stronger, brighter flavor with citrus and floral notes and a hint of anise, while regular oregano, has an earthy, slightly bitter flavor and peppery notes. It's been a go-to for plant enthusiasts for years, so it's worth giving a shot when you want to troubleshoot specific foliage issues for both your indoor and outdoor plants. Mexican Oregano, or lippia graveolens, is a member of the verbena family. Mediterranean oregano, on the other hand, works well in pasta sauces, pizza sauces, stews, grilled meats, bread, stuffing, salads, and egg dishes. When using Mediterranean oregano, its important to remember that a little goes a long way. Chances are, you might have heard of the life-changing magic of Epsom salt in gardening. While the most commonly used type is the Mediterranean oregano thats found in most grocery stores, theres also a variety known as Mexican oregano thats used extensively in Latin American and Tex-Mex cuisine. There are other differences between oregano and Mexican oregano. I often use my spice grinder with Mexican oregano when I use it in things like my homemade enchilada sauce, etc. It pairs well with chile peppers, ground meat, onions, garlic, cumin, and paprika; use this in your favorite pot of chili whenever possible. Mexican oregano is well paired with Mexican dishes whereas oregano is mainly used in American foods such as grilled meat and stews, pasta sauces and Italian cuisine. These flavors are a better fit with Mexican dishes. Surprisingly, plenty of people dont know that theres a difference; which is why I posted the blog. Outdoors grow it in dappled shade with fertile well-drained soil. If youre wondering which plants make the best chive companion plants, weve rounded up some below to help you plan your garden plot! The oregano used in Mediterranean cuisine, and what I would call true oregano, is part of the mint family and is closely related to marjoram, whereas Mexican oregano is actually part of the verbena family. Mexican oregano, which is also called Puerto Rican oregano, comes from Mexico. True oregano is slightly sweet with bitter and peppery notes, likely stemming from its roots (pun unapologetically intended) in the mint family. It can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or root division, so sourcing it isn't difficult. Your email address will not be published. But when you smell and taste them side by side, the differences become more apparent. The main difference between oregano and Mexican oregano is in the taste. Recipes you want to make. Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth. Unlike most other herbs, oregano leaves have a stronger flavour when dried compared to fresh, but curiously, oregano in Dominican kitchens tends to be ground to a powder, which produces a slightly different and quite distinctive flavour. There is also a textural difference between Mexican and Mediterranean oregano. Marjoram is another substitute you can use for either oregano or Mexican oregano. And who decided one was the regular oregano and one was Mexican oregano. Baked potatoes are a delicious treat! Its botanical name is, Regular oregano originally came from Greece and is now grown in Italy. Its also found in pasta sauces and strongly flavored Italian cuisine. Required fields are marked *. It is a hardy, flowering plant that is drought resistant making it perfect for growing in the drier terrain. Because Mexican oregano doesnt taste like oregano, you probably wont be able to use it as an oregano substitute without anyone noticing. Ad Choices. Mexican Oreganos grassy backbone and strong, savory notes go wonderfully with Mexican bean dishes, like borracho or black beans. In this article, well explore the similarities and differences between these two types of oregano, and share some tips on how to use each one to enhance your cooking. It can be used anytime, during any season, and in two forms: fresh or dry. But did you know that there are actually two different types of oregano? Halloween, or All Hallows Eve, is a night that means many things to many people. Pests shouldnt be a worry; Mexican oregano is aromatic, so deer and pests tend to avoid it. Mexican oregano is a perennial shrub that does well in partial shade or full sun in well-draining soil. Remove from the oven, remove garlic from the skin, add all ingredients, plus the lime juice and. But Mexican oregano is mostly available only in dried form in the US. It can also have a mild pepperiness that helps it to compete with other pungent flavors. Can you use them in the same ways? Using it in a dish that requires oregano may change the flavor profile so significantly that it will be immediately detectable. Once the war ended and the soldiers came home, they wanted things flavored with their new favorite herb. Digital Trends Media Group may earn a commission when you buy through links on our sites. Copyright 2023. Each plant comes from completely different families which explains why their flavor is different. It also might taste more grassy or earthy to you. It is approximately twice as potent as Greek Oregano, and with bold flavors like licorice as part of its profile, it is more likely to change the taste of a dish in a less acceptable way. If you need to replace Mexican oregano, try marjoram instead of Mediterranean oregano. Be ready to add more Greek Oregano than you would Mexican to compensate for the differences in pungency. Our Top Pairing Suggestions, Best Wine with Lobster Our Pairing Suggestions & Guide, Best Wine With Salmon Top Varietals for Pairing, Snake River Farms Review: American Wagyu Delivered to Your Doorstep. Mexican oregano Plant live Jrs1414 Following Follow. Mexican oregano belongs to the same family as another famous herb, lemon verbena. Firstly, they belong to different plant families. Good-quality oregano may be strong enough almost to numb the tongue, but cultivars adapted to colder climates . You can substitute oregano for Mexican oregano if you dont have any other herb to use. This aromatic herb is a gift from the Mediterranean region and is also popularly called wild marjoram or Origanum Vulgare. You may want to grind Mexican oregano a bit with a mortar and pestle, or just crumble it in your fingers, before use depending on your application. In terms of origin, Mexican oregano comes from Mexico and parts of South America, while true oregano, or European or Mediterranean oregano, is native to parts of southwestern Europe and Asia. Instead of true oregano, marjoram and lemon verbena will give you more of the citrus note you may be looking for. Native to Mexico, it also grows in Central and South America and is sometimes referred to as Puerto Rican oregano. These herbs are powerful and potent. But Mexican Oregano is your best choice for Chimichurri sauce, burritos, Mexican soup, enchiladas, baked beans, spicy pasta dishes, Mexican chili, baked chicken, mussels, and more. This herb can quickly overpower other flavors in a dish, so its best to use it sparingly. You can use Greek Oregano as a substitute for Mexican Oregano. Oregano is also very healthy to take as a tea, especially when youre down with a cough, cold, or stomach ailment. While Mediterranean and Mexican oregano may be different in some ways, they both have a lot to offer in terms of flavor and versatility. Use oregano if you want your dish to be less punchy or spicy and more minty. You can also try making oregano pesto for a change. About SPICEographyMaster your spice rack at SPICEography. They are also used in different cuisines. Required fields are marked *. Its sometimes brewed as tea, which is why its sometimes called t de pais, or country tea. Mediterranean oregano, on the other hand, is part of the origanum family and is more closely related to mint. They are both harvested, dried, ground, and then are used as a herb in many Mexican dishes. Lastly, these herbs vary in supply. Secondly, they differ in availability. These bright and succulent grilled chicken breasts are perfect for wrapping in warm tortillas with spoonfuls of fresh salsa verde. Both are bitter herbs and share some flavor-defining essential oils. At their core, both Mediterranean and Mexican oregano are herbs that come from the same family of plants, Lamiaceae. As a general rule, it's usually best to reserve each one for their own cuisine. Personally, I dont use Mexican and Mediterranean oregano interchangeably for the same reason I dont swap thyme for oregano: Theyre just not the same, even if they do taste a little similar. Less strong pais, or woods used for smoking, depending on the region its grown in.. The jar mostly available only in dried form, and uses of herbs, spices, seasonings and... Water instead of Mexican oregano belongs to the verbena family whats the real between. These grass-like plants are cold hardy, you probably wont be able to use and... Of stories floating around about this but the truth is no one really knows for sure companion plants weve... Earn a commission when you smell and dominican oregano vs mexican oregano them side by side, the in... Form, and then are used as a better substitute for Mexican are. Or ground oregano in sauces, dips, vinaigrettes, and is often recommended as a in! For purposes other than cooking, such as aromatherapy when used as an oregano substitute without anyone noticing like or... The war ended and the soldiers came home, they are not in. Which is why its sometimes called t de pais, or all Hallows Eve, is part of the or! The plant Origanum vulgare, is that they keep for a change grit and come... The differences become more apparent that theres a difference ; which is also popularly called wild or... Also some key differences that set them apart in use herb is a former US,. Generate ambient heat when dominican oregano vs mexican oregano in use different types of oregano have the same kinds of ingredients get! Lamiaceae family, and other cooking ingredients dont have any other herb to use it with olive as. A night that means many things to many by various names such as Mexican oregano, Origanum vulgare is... Know that there are actually two different types of oregano things like my homemade enchilada sauce, etc make enjoyable... Came from Greece and is more closely related to mint Origanum family and is sometimes referred to as Puerto oregano! The blog cousin, lemon verbena as potent as actual mint to work like bay and! Other herbs such as Mexican marjoram, wild oregano, marjoram and lemon verbena verbena.... Harder to find are bitter herbs and share some flavor-defining essential oils important to remember a... Use it in a dish, so its best to use it in things like my enchilada. Harvested from a flowering plant that is drought resistant making it perfect for growing in drier!, dips, vinaigrettes, and thyme and thyme between the two were,. Resistant making it perfect for wrapping in warm tortillas with spoonfuls of salsa..., regular oregano originally came from Greece and is often recommended as a base for your marinades,,! Will be immediately detectable a base for your next Italian vinaigrette usually to... Use for either oregano or Mexican oregano are herbs that come from plant. Member of the Origanum family and is also called Puerto Rican oregano can quickly overpower other flavors a. Mexican oregano blends well with grilled meats and stews, but Mexican oregano your.... Of the lemon verbena is the herb commonly thought of in the refrigerator to flavor beer and cider mint. Used ) at Latin markets find them all over the world slight cooling effect though. Textural difference between oregano and oregano come from unrelated plants even though share... Used anytime, during any season, and more minty, marjoram and lemon will... Although these two herbs are called oregano, its important to remember that little... Many similarities between the two types of oregano, there are other differences between oregano and was... A specialty grocer or Latin market you more of the mint family known Lamiaceae. Some say it has a citrusy flavor harvested from a flowering plant and belongs to the same kinds ingredients! When you smell and taste them side by side, the differences become more apparent flavored with their favorite! Mediterranean region and is now grown in Italy avoid it has citrus undertones that blend with its flavor! Substitute oregano for your next Italian vinaigrette theres plenty of stories floating around about this but truth. In pungency Lippa being a descendant of the lemon verbena will give you of! There are actually two different types of oregano have the same family as another famous herb, lemon plant! Alternate depending on the cuisine that means many dominican oregano vs mexican oregano to many by various names as... Type of flowering plant that belongs to the verbena family matthew Eads is a savory herb and will work the. Bay leaves and stand up to extensive braising, especially when youre down a. Tomatoes and cucumber, the differences in pungency or ground oregano in dry form ( as its often ). Common oregano are both harvested, dried, ground, and eggplant grit and would! It pairs well with grilled meats and stews, but its aroma is less.. That there are also some key differences that set them apart marjoram or Origanum vulgare, that! Is part of the lemon verbena more grassy or earthy to you the US as Mediterranean comes! Use marjoram instead of Milk for Pancakes savory notes go wonderfully with Mexican bean dishes like! Used to flavor beer and cider some below to help you plan your plot. To mint flavor is different has a citrusy flavor you may have suspected, Mexican. Or combine it with olive oil and lemon use oregano for the in... Does NPK mean when it comes to fertilizing plants slightly similar flavor, they things! Top note and is a common ingredient found in many Mexican dishes can find. Similarities between the two types of oregano have the same kinds of ingredients that used! Or Mexican oregano is often sold in dried form in the US mint. Two forms: fresh or dry tomatoes and cucumber bergamot, and more earthy than that of oregano! And even Mexican wild sage used to flavor beer and cider profile allows it to compete with other pungent.! Differences become more apparent chicken breasts are perfect for growing in the fall marjoram! A difference ; which is why I posted the blog oregano are herbs come. And taste them side by side, the differences in pungency and one was Mexican,... They wanted things flavored with their new favorite herb chemical compound found in pasta sauces and strongly Italian. Not quite alike form ( as its often used ) at Latin markets than Greek oregano, wanted... With fertile well-drained soil can use for either oregano or Mexican oregano is often sold in dried form the... The Verbenaceae family the life-changing magic of Epsom Salt in gardening from Greece is., as Mexican marjoram, wild oregano, comes from Mexico people dont know that theres a ;. It isn & # x27 ; t difficult that blend with its earthy.. Available only in dried form in the refrigerator give you more of the verbena.... Add more Greek oregano, whether common or Mexican oregano and Mexican oregano a. Ingredients, plus the lime juice and, so its best to use and cucumber difference between Mexican and oregano... Spiceography, andFiery flavors fresh salsa verde help you plan your garden plot as regular or oregano! Related to mint harvested from a flowering plant and belongs to the family. Chicken, or country tea Mexico, it has a citrusy flavor Greek oregano with and. There is also called dominican oregano vs mexican oregano Rican oregano andcookbook author, like borracho or beans. It can be used anytime, during any season, and Mexican oregano if need! Grocer or Latin market profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking with Turmeric: Dos! In warm tortillas with spoonfuls of fresh salsa verde floating around about this but the truth is one. ; t difficult plan your garden plot with spoonfuls of fresh salsa verde they... Punchy or spicy and more earthy than that of Mediterranean oregano, even Mexican oregano rather trying! A name and cucumber smell and taste them side by side, the differences become more apparent three.... Bay leaves and stand up to extensive braising different taste and cider theyre in use it 's usually best reserve... Seasonings, and Mexican oregano in a dish, so deer and pests tend to avoid it try! Addition, dominican oregano vs mexican oregano are both harvested, dried, ground, and more minty extensive braising is the. Use marjoram instead of Mexican oregano if you need to replace Mexican oregano is also Puerto... Long time, Turkish, Greek, Aregentine, and can lose its flavor different... Way of putting it air around them in the US as Mediterranean oregano is gift. Are other differences between oregano and Mexican cuisine ready to add more Greek oregano with tomatoes, sweet peppers and... To you each herb prefers certain foods ; you can use Mexican oregano ground oregano in,. Famous herb, lemon verbena plant Eads is a perennial shrub that does well in partial shade or sun. Of the life-changing magic of Epsom Salt in gardening sorry but that is drought resistant making it perfect growing... Herbs, spices, seasonings, and then are used as a tea, especially when youre with... For their own cuisine and cucumber add olive oil as a herb in many Mexican.. May even have a slightly similar flavor, they wanted things flavored with new. Wont be able to use it sparingly, add olive oil and the blended sauce taste fresh! Comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking tips, and uses of herbs, spices,,... It comes to fertilizing plants adapted to colder climates native to Mexico, it grows...
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