Marjoram, 50g

Marjoram, 50g

Marjoram (Origanum majorana) is a herb from the mint family, closely related to oregano, but with a milder, sweeter flavour. It is native to the Mediterranean region and has been used in cooking and herbal medicine for centuries. Marjoram’s flavour profile is warm, slightly sweet, and floral, with hints of citrus and pine. This makes it a versatile herb in both savory and sweet dishes.

Flavour Profile:

• Sweet & Mild: Marjoram has a milder, sweeter taste compared to oregano, making it less pungent and more delicate.
• Herbal & Floral: It offers a floral, citrusy undertone with woodsy and piney notes, creating a balanced and aromatic herb.
• Subtle: It’s generally less sharp or bitter than its cousin oregano, with a soft, gentle warmth.

Common Uses for Marjoram:

1. Meat Dishes:

• Poultry & Lamb: Marjoram pairs wonderfully with chicken, turkey, and lamb. It can be used in marinades, rubs, or sprinkled on meats before roasting. It enhances the flavour of grilled meats or is added to stuffings for roasted poultry.
• Sausages & Stews: Marjoram is often found in sausage blends and adds flavour to stews, especially those containing beef, pork, or lamb. It can complement rich meats with its light, aromatic notes.

2. Vegetables:

• Root Vegetables: Marjoram is excellent with roasted root vegetables, including potatoes, carrots, and sweet potatoes, where it adds a pleasant warmth.
• Vegetable Dishes: It can be used to season tomato sauces, ratatouille, or vegetable soups and stews, giving them a mild but fragrant herbal kick.
• Salads: Fresh marjoram can be used in salads, paired with cucumber or tomato.

3. Soups & Stews:

• Broth-based Soups: Marjoram works well in broths, especially those made with vegetables, chicken, or pork. Its gentle flavour infuses soups without overpowering them.
• Chili & Bean Dishes: Add marjoram to chilli, bean stews, or lentil dishes to enhance their savoury depth.

4. Sauces & Condiments:

• Herb Sauces: It can be incorporated into herb-based sauces like pesto, tahini sauces, or salsa verde, where its delicate flavour balances the other ingredients.
• Tomato Sauces: Marjoram is a great addition to tomato-based sauces, such as those used in pasta dishes or on pizzas.

5. Baked Goods:

• Bread & Crackers: Marjoram can be used to flavour bread, especially focaccia, or in savoury crackers. It imparts a subtle, herby aroma to baked goods.
• Stuffing & Pastries: Add marjoram to savoury pastry fillings or stuffing for a soft herbal flavour.

6. Herbal Teas & Infusions:

• Herbal Tea: Marjoram can be used in herbal teas to aid digestion and calm the body. It has mild soothing properties and is often used in tea blends.
• Infusions: It can also be used in herbal infusions for relaxation and relief from digestive issues.

7. In Preserves:

• Pickles & Chutneys: Marjoram adds an interesting herbaceous layer to pickles, chutneys, or jams, particularly those made with tomato, onion, or cucumber.

Health Benefits of Marjoram:

• Digestive Aid: Marjoram has been traditionally used to aid digestion and alleviate indigestion, bloating, and gas. It helps to relax the digestive muscles and may promote better digestion overall.
• Anti-inflammatory: Like many herbs, marjoram contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Marjoram is rich in antioxidants, which can help combat the effects of oxidative stress and promote overall health.
• Sleep Aid: Marjoram has mild sedative properties and has been used to promote sleep and relaxation.
• Respiratory Health: It has been used traditionally in herbal medicine to treat coughs, congestion, and other respiratory issues, often as a steam inhalation.