Oregano, Organic, 50g

Organic Oregano, 50g

Dried oregano is the dried form of the oregano herb, which belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae). The plant, Origanum vulgare, is native to the Mediterranean and western Asia. It has a robust, earthy, and slightly bitter flavour, with hints of mint and lemon. When dried, oregano’s flavour intensifies, making it a popular choice for adding depth and aromatic richness to a variety of dishes.

Flavour Profile:

• Earthy and Pungent: Dried oregano has a strong, warm, and slightly bitter flavour.
• Minty and Lemon: Its underlying minty and citrusy notes make it unique, often pairing well with tomatoes, cheese, and meats.
• Aromatic: The dried form has a potent herbaceous aroma that infuses dishes with a distinct fragrance.

Common Uses for Dried Oregano:

1. Mediterranean and Italian Dishes:

• Tomato-based Sauces: Dried oregano is a classic ingredient in tomato sauces, especially for pizza, pasta, and lasagna. Its earthy flavour complements the sweetness of tomatoes.
• Italian Seasoning Blends: Often included in Italian seasoning or pizza seasoning, oregano pairs beautifully with basil, garlic, and rosemary to create the perfect flavour profile for Italian and Mediterranean dishes.
• Herb-Crusted Meats: It works wonderfully in herb-crusted chicken, lamb, or pork. The robust flavour of oregano can also be used in marinades to enhance the flavour of grilled or roasted meats.

2. Mediterranean and Greek Dishes:

• Greek Salad: Dried oregano is a key seasoning in Greek salad, where it is sprinkled over tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, and olive oil.
• Gyros and Souvlaki: Dried oregano is a common seasoning for Greek meat dishes, like gyros or souvlaki, adding a herbal note that balances the richness of the meat.

3. Middle Eastern Cuisine:

• Stews and Casseroles: Oregano is used in Middle Eastern stews and casseroles, often paired with lamb, eggplant, tomatoes, and chickpeas. Its herbal flavour complements spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
• Za'atar: Oregano is one of the herbs used in za'atar seasoning, a Middle Eastern spice blend that also includes thyme, sesame seeds, and sumac. It’s commonly used in flatbreads, dips, and meat dishes.

4. Mexican Cuisine:

• Taco Seasoning: Dried oregano is an essential ingredient in many Mexican spice mixes like taco seasoning, where it pairs with chili powder, cumin, and paprika to flavour ground beef, chicken, or vegetables.
• Salsas and Guacamole: It adds an herbal kick to salsas and guacamole, balancing the sharpness of the tomatoes and the creaminess of avocado.

5. Roasted Vegetables:

• Vegetable Seasoning: Dried oregano works well with roasted vegetables, especially potatoes, zucchini, eggplant, and tomatoes. It pairs beautifully with olive oil and can be added before roasting for a fragrant, herbaceous flavour.

6. Soups and Stews:

• Soup Base: Dried oregano is a great addition to many soups and stews, particularly bean soups, lentil soups, and tomato-based soups. Its robust, earthy flavour can add depth to broths and vegetable-based dishes.
• Chili: In chili or stews, oregano can provide a sharp contrast to the richness of meat and beans, enhancing the overall flavour balance.

7. Salads and Dressings:

• Vinaigrettes: Dried oregano is a common ingredient in salad dressings, especially Greek-style vinaigrettes, where it combines with olive oil, vinegar, garlic, and lemon juice to create a tangy, herb-infused dressing.
• Herbed Butter or Oil: Mix dried oregano into softened butter or olive oil to create a savoury spread for bread, roasted vegetables, or grilled meats.

8. Baking and Bread:

• Herb Bread: Oregano is sometimes included in bread recipes, particularly focaccia or herb-infused breads. It adds a distinct flavour to the dough or can be used as a topping on baked bread.

Health Benefits of Dried Oregano:

1. Antioxidant-Rich: Oregano is loaded with antioxidants, which help to fight oxidative stress and may protect against cellular damage.
2. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Oregano contains compounds like carvacrol that have anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation in the body.
3. Digestive Aid: Oregano is thought to have mild digestive benefits, including aiding in digestion and easing bloating and gas.
4. Antibacterial and Antifungal: Oregano has been used traditionally for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, and it’s often recommended in herbal remedies for respiratory infections or digestive issues.
5. Immune System Boost: Oregano may help support the immune system due to its antiviral and antioxidant properties, helping the body fight off infections.