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Description
Oregano is the dried leaves of the herbs Origanum spp or Lippia
spp (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 the
troops returned from WWII, 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 the principal supplier of Oregano to McCormick. 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. |
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