Oriental Oregano

What is oregano?

Oregano is a plant of the Lamiaceae family to which rosemary, savory, thyme or basil also belong. The one that is also called wild marjoram or perennial marjoram is cultivated in Europe and the Middle East, I propose you today an oregano from Turkey. It has a favorable climate in this country to bloom fully and develop all its flavors. Oregano has always been an important plant, but not always for its gustatory qualities. While the Egyptians and Indians considered it a sacred plant, the Greeks and Romans were seduced by its aphrodisiac properties. As early as antiquity, oregano infusions were concocted for good health. Today, oregano is known for its presence in the famous herbs of Provence alongside rosemary, basil and tarragon.

What is the flavor of oregano?

Oregano has an intense, spicy, slightly bitter taste with notes of pepper.

Harvesting oregano in plantations

Oregano is a small edible plant whose leaves are used as an aromatic, dried and crushed. It is also possible to eat its leaves. It likes the sun and the calcareous and sandy grounds, it adapts to the drained grounds to dry. This plant can reach 30 to 80 cm in height, it is rustic and supports negative temperatures until -15°. Turkey offers a favorable climate for this plant to develop in the best conditions.

How to use oregano in cooking?

In the kitchen, when we talk about oregano, we immediately think of Italian cuisine. This aromatic is the star of pizzas, it brings this strength that makes all the difference. On a pizza made with homemade tomato sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, Parma ham and Parmesan cheese, oregano brings that unmistakable vegetable note. Of course, when we talk about Italian cuisine, how can we not talk about pasta. Here again, oregano has its place. Bolognese pasta, cannelloni, ravioli, lasagna, oregano will sublimate your recipes. In a marinade, this aromatic is also to be preferred. With olive oil and basil, marinate meat or shrimp and then put them on the plancha. On the barbecue or the plancha, make tomatoes à la provençale, it will be delicious. I also recommend using oregano in a moussaka to give it once again a vegetal and intense side. Naturally, oregano also goes perfectly with a fish dish, whether you eat it in a casserole, in the pan, in the oven, in a foil, etc. Good to know: with a minimum cooking time of 15 minutes, oregano reveals all its flavors. As soon as you serve it as an appetizer, oregano will become the star of your recipes. Imagine for a moment presenting your guests with a small savory muffin with chorizo, tomato, parmesan and oregano. You'll be a sensation.

The conservation of oregano

Delivered in a resealable airtight bag, my dried Turkish oregano is best kept in a place protected from light and humidity.