Using oregano in cooking

While botanists may tell you that marjoram and oregano are the same herb, experienced cooks will be just as quick to point out that no matter what the scientists say, they are by no means the same.

And, by the same token, neither are the two varieties of oregano, Greek, Origanum heraclites, and Mexican, Lippia graveolens , the same.

Oregano came to prominence in the US just after World War 2 when servicemen returning from Europe told of the wonderful pizzas experienced in Italy, decked liberally with oregano, which goes particularly well with all types of tomato sauces but also with egg and cheese dishes. Oregano and (my favorite herb) basil combine to create the special flavor common in the Italian cooking we know so well.

Greek oregano is an essential ingredient of pizza just as Mexican oregano is to chili powder. The two types may be used interchangeably but the use of each one on its own increases the authenticity of certain dishes.

For your Mexican cooking, Mexican oregano has a more earthy flavor the Greek and with less hint of mint in the aroma.. Set Greek and Mexican side-by-side and you will soon see the difference. Mexican oregano has a proliferation of what appear to be tiny flower buds and leaves while Greek oregano has more of a cut-leaf appearance. Sweet marjoram has leaves that are slightly hairy and more gray-green in color.

Fresh oregano is great with sautéed zucchini and onions, and is a welcome addition, with cilantro, to black beans. For a simple elegant appetizer, carefully grill thick slices of provolone cheese that have been sprinkled with oregano. When the cheese is warmed and starts to melt

Apart from its use in just tomato dishes, oregano may be effectively used in vegetable or bean dishes, or the fresh leaves may be tossed into your next salad. Add a bit of Mexican oregano to barbecue sauce or meatloaf for a change of pace. The leaves can either be used fresh or dried. Crush the leaves in the palm of your hand before using them to release the aroma.

Oregano can be is used in many dishes other than pizza. It is used in meat, liver and kidney dishes, salads and stuffing. Oregano is also used in soups, vegetable dishes, pasta sauces and scrambled eggs.