It is also peppery or citrusy and spicy. Thats why it has the same flavor and scent as oregano. So the next time youre cooking with oregano, consider experimenting with both types to discover all the amazing ways these herbs can enhance your cooking and take your dishes to the next level. Mediterranean oregano is made from a combination of Spanish thyme and the herb oregano Vulgare, also known as wild marjoram. Required fields are marked *. Thus, they are different types of plants, with different looks, flavors and work well in different dishes. First, in Mexico, its just called oregano, and what Americans refer to as oregano is called Mediterranean oregano. It can be used anytime, during any season, and in two forms: fresh or dry. You'll be surprised at just how tasty it leaves your food. Lather and drop them in your homemade casseroles and more. Get it Mar 10 - 17. The differences between Mexican oregano and oregano are visible at first sight when you have them side by side. It has a subtle sweet taste to it. Building on a lifelong passion for cooking and the memories of his dads less-than-stellar BBQ, Matthew has learned the ways of the grill through reading, practical application, and a lot of trial and error. However, you're better to replace Mexican oregano with marjoram while Italian oregano could be replaced with marjoram, basil, or thyme. Native to Mexico, it also grows in Central and South America and is sometimes referred to as Puerto Rican oregano. Mexican oregano is a staple in Mexican cuisine whereas Mediterranean oregano is popular in Mediterranean cuisines. You can usually find Mexican oregano in dry form (as its often used) at Latin markets. Its strong flavoring is a perfect pairing for Mexican bean recipes (like Charro beans and Borracho beans ), sauces . Mexican oregano: Mexican oregano is a relative of lemon verbena. It is made from leaves that have are crunchy texture and small flower buds. You can use Mexican oregano for the same purposes as regular or common oregano. Featuring a sweet and peppery flavor, it often goes on pizza and pasta as extra garnish. It has a strong citrus flavor with a hint of licorice. Its flavor develops and intensifies, but best of all, it is easier using a shaker bottle without the need for preparation. It is part of the mint family Lamiaceae and other aromatic herbs like basil, rosemary, thyme, and lavender. You can use Mexican oregano whenever you want to add the sourness of lemon into your dish. Certified Piedmontese Review Healthy Beef Delivered to Your Doorstep. You can use Greek Oregano as a substitute for Mexican Oregano. The differences between Mexican oregano and Mediterranean oregano are significant. Surprisingly, plenty of people dont know that theres a difference; which is why I posted the blog. Both types of oregano have a pungent, slightly bitter flavor thats often described as being slightly minty or citrusy. A Mexican oregano plant can grow to reach a height of six feet tall, while Mediterranean oregano maxes out around two feet tall. Blend the mixture until it is completely smooth. Greek Oregano (common oregano) Lemon Verbena. Mexican oregano pairs well with the seasonings that tend to show up in Mexican cooking like cumin and peppers. I often use my spice grinder with Mexican oregano when I use it in things like my homemade enchilada sauce, etc. Photo courtesy of The. Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) is considered to be the strongest-flavored variety. It pairs well with grilled meats and stews, but thats not the only thing youll find it in. However, we should point out that Mexican oregano is more complementary to Mexican cuisine since it has a stronger and spicier flavor. In terms of origin, Mexican oregano comes from Mexico and parts of South America, while true oregano, or European or Mediterranean oregano, is native to parts of southwestern Europe and Asia. While it appreciates deep watering in well-draining soil, it's also relatively drought tolerant. Pair Mexican Oregano with chiles, beans, and ground meats. But did you know that there are actually two different types of oregano? Grow these herbs for Halloween to make your celebration even spookier, Spook up your Halloween with these easy-to-grow herbs, Is Epsom salt good for houseplants? True oregano is slightly sweet with bitter and peppery notes, likely stemming from its roots (pun unapologetically intended) in the mint family. Mexican oregano has a floral, citrusy taste with a touch of anise. Cuban oregano is commonly known by many other names including Mexican mint, Spanish thyme, Indian borage, Caribbean oregano, and Broadleaf thyme. 403 sales | 3.5 out of 5 stars. Oregano emerged in southern Europes temperate regions and is a traditional Mediterranean herb. Retrieved September 27, 2022. If youre unsure which one to pick, read on as I discuss each type, its flavor, pairings, and substitutes. Try it if you haven't! Mexican oregano, in fact, tends to be stronger and earthier, so less is more if youre substituting it for traditional oregano. What herbs and spices do you consider essential in the kitchen? Oregano belongs to the mint and sage family, Lamiaceae, while Mexican oregano (Lippia Graveolens) belongs to the family Verbenaceae. Copyright 2023. Whats Are the Best Types of Beer To Have With Steak? Although the herb is native to Mexico it also grows throughout Central and South America. Add tomatillo mixture to a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until tomatillos have. Is oregano the same as Mexican oregano? I want to join 30,000 home cooks and food professionals who receive inspiration and recipes featuring the freshest spices, dried chiles, herbs, and seasoning blends. Mexican oregano, on the other hand, is brighter with floral and citrus notes and a hint of anise, flavors that are characteristic of most herbs in the verbena family. stored along with other herbs, spices, and dried chiles, Oregano Throwdown Mediterranean Vs Mexican. Substitute Cooking is packed with mouth-watering recipes that work, cooking substitutes for meals, and actional tips from passionate and experienced home cooks. Although these two spices have the same name, they have distinct differences that make them unique. Mexican oregano Plant live Jrs1414 Following Follow. Unsurprisingly, used fresh or dried, it pairs well with the flavors of traditional Latin American cuisine. While Mediterranean oregano is used in Italian and Greek cuisine, youre more likely to find Mexican oregano used in Mexican dishes, as the name suggests. Well, thats not really an accurate way of putting it. Each plant comes from completely different families which explains why their flavor is different. Oregano has a minty quality along with a subtle bitterness that enhances its savory properties. Mexican oregano is a different type of oregano, with a different flavor and look,native to Mexico, Southwest America, and Central America. What are Other Differences Between Oregano and Mexican Oregano? Mexican oregano is also sometimes used as a tea herb. Marjoram will also work as a substitute for Mediterranean oregano, or you can use thyme, basil, or sage. At that time, Hector Boiardilater of Chef Boyardees famewas commissioned to cook rations for soldiers overseas. It can also have a mild pepperiness that helps it to compete with other pungent flavors. And pay attention to the amounts you put in. Oregano is widely available in the US, but Mexican oregano is usually available only in specialty shops. The Lippa being a descendant of the lemon verbena plant. Greek oregano is part of the mint or Lamiaceae family, and Mexican oregano is part of the verbena or Verbenaceae family. What's the difference between Mexican and Italian oregano? Can You Substitute Oregano for Mexican Oregano in Recipes? Restaurant recommendations you trust. Mexican and Greek Oregano are excellent herbs to cook, delivering terrific flavor. It can be used to add aroma and flavor to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Cuban oregano is botanically known as Plectranthus amboinicus or its synonym Coleus amboinicus, and is an unusual member of the mint family. In my kitchen, Mexican oregano shows up in a lot of recipes. Despite its earthy flavor and savory profile, oregano is actually a type of mint. As with other dried herbs, oregano's volatile compounds will eventually dissipate. A closer look may help you distinguish details between these herbs. So if you do decide to substitute Mexican oregano for Mediterranean oregano, use a little less than whats called for. roasted. I would never use Italian oregano in place of mexican oregano. Note that even if they have a slightly similar flavor, they dont taste the same. Yes, oregano and Mexican oregano have similar base flavor profiles. It goes wonderfully with garlic, eggplant, peppers, cumin, cilantro, tomatoes, capers, vinegar, and cheese. Mediterranean oregano is native to the Mediterranean and it is commonly found in France, Italy, Turkey, Morocco, and Israel. While Mexican and Italian oregano leaves can be used fresh or dry in cooking, we suggest using the dried spice when cooking Mexican. Instead of true oregano, marjoram and lemon verbena will give you more of the citrus note you may be looking for. Visit our sister site PepperScale. Its scientific name is. As these soldiers ate his canned spaghetti, they came to enjoy oreganos sassy flavor. Oregano (sometimes called Mediterranean oregano) is widely available in supermarkets, but Mexican oregano is mostly found in specialty shops, spice stores, and Latin markets. Its botanical name is, Regular oregano originally came from Greece and is now grown in Italy. Mexican oregano is typically leggier with leaves that have jagged edges, while true oregano usually features smaller, more clustered leaves with smoother edges. Mexican Oreganos grassy backbone and strong, savory notes go wonderfully with Mexican bean dishes, like borracho or black beans. You can use it as a substitute because marjoram has a similar flavor to Mexican oregano. Thymol is a chemical compound found in other herbs such as marjoram, wild bergamot, and thyme. They are also known as Mediterranean oregano. Summary Comparison - Mexican & Italian Oregano, Marjoram Substitutes 5 Recommended Options, Basil Companion Plants: Top 25 Plants To Grow Near Basil, Pungent, citrus flavors with a subtle licorice undertone, Robust flavor with sweet, minty, bitter, and peppery notes, Mexican staples like cumin, chili, paprika, beans, beef, chicken, avocado, and tomatoes, Italian favorites like onion, garlic, basil, flat-leaf parsley, thyme, lamb, beef, chicken, Found in the spice aisle of most grocery stores, Use marjoram, thyme, basil, or sage as your best, Mexican oregano is native to Mexico, Southwest United States, and Central America. Updated on October 30, 2022 .entry-meta { display: flex; align-items: center; }. Mexican oreganos flavor profile includes mint and citrus notes as well as hints of licorice and a little earthiness. The essential oils (Carvacrol and Thymol) of oregano have antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Whichever kind you choose, be sure to store it in a cool, dry, dark place to preserve its flavor. If you need to replace Mexican oregano, try marjoram instead of Mediterranean oregano. Are you curious about the differences between Mexican oregano (sometimes called Puerto Rican oregano) and Mediterranean oregano (often simply called oregano)? Greek oreganos are made from wild plants, while Mexican oreganos are made from domesticated plants. Greek oregano has an earthy, savory, and spicy flavor. Both oregano and Mexican oregano can be used in the same recipes, but Mexican oregano is best for Mexican dishes and spicy, flavorful meals. You can also try making oregano pesto for a change. The warm, snappy flavors of Greek Oregano go well with the bright flavors of Mediterranean food, adding herbaceousness to salty fish and feta. Whats the Best Wine With Steak? It has a stronger and slightly different flavor than the regular oregano. It can be grown from seeds, cuttings, or root division, so sourcing it isn't difficult. Please let me know if you have any questions. However, Greek oregano is considered by many to be the best for flavor. If you follow these basic steps to store Mexican and Greek Oregano, you can expect your herbs to remain viable and preserve their lively flavors for 6-12 months. Ad Choices. Using it in a dish that requires oregano may change the flavor profile so significantly that it will be immediately detectable. Greek oregano, also known as rigani is originated in Greece. Oregano is a widely used spice in many cuisines over the world. Brew some fresh leaves in boiled water and enjoy it hot. The Best Herbal Teas, According to Bon Apptit Editors, Making Your Own Flavored Vinegar Is Surprisingly Simple and Extremely Worth It, The Secret to the Silkiest Queso? Bon Apptit may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. Outdoors grow it in dappled shade with fertile well-drained soil. It elevates the flavor of sun-dried tomatoes and bell peppers. The genetic makeups of the two are also different. Much like wine, or woods used for smoking, depending on the region its grown in, it has a slightly different taste. Can you substitute oregano for Mexican oregano? Required fields are marked *. Although all of these dishes are very different, Mexican oregano pairs beautifully with all of them. Wrap them in a damp paper towel and put them in a plastic bag. Keeping them away from the heat also means they should not be stored near your oven and stove. Pork Loin Vs Pork Chop: Whats the Difference? However, if you want to cook something unique for your family like carne asada, Chiles Rellenos or burritos use Mexican oregano and give your dish a wonderful flavor. A most excellent feature of dried or ground oregano, whether common or Mexican oregano, is that they keep for a long time. Yes, you can substitute oregano for Mexican oregano in recipes and the other way around. Choosing a winner out of Italian and Mexican oregano is tough because they both have their uses in the kitchen. It is interesting to note that while these two do not belong to the same family, Mexican oregano contains high essential oils that are found in common oregano. Oregano sales climbed more than 5200 percent between 1948 and 19561; once oregano entered the inner circle of staple kitchen spices, it never left. Oregano comes from the mint family, Lamiaceae, while Mexican oregano comes from the Verbenaceae family. It pairs well with other spicy and earthy flavors, and can help to create a complex and nuanced blend of spices that will take your dishes to the next level. Oregano, sometimes called common oregano, has different varieties. For kids and their parents, its a night to dress up in fun or scary costumes, walk around town, and get candy. Required fields are marked *. They are not even in the same familythey are totally different. Mexican oregano is a bit chunkier than Mediterranean oregano, which comes in a finer form. If youre wondering what makes them distinct and why the nuances matter, keep reading ahead. Blooms appear in the summer, which is when you should start cutting back on the foliage which you can dry out to use in your favorite recipes! Mexican Oregano vs Oregano. The " greek oregano vs mexican oregano " is a question that has been asked many times before. Popularly thought of as the pizza herb, Greek Oregano did not gain a solid foothold in the US culinary scene until the end of World War II. It has a strong flavor with sweet, minty, bitter, and peppery notes. 5 reviews. In a large pan, add olive oil and the blended sauce. Both Mexican and Greek Oregano deliver bold flavors to dishes. Thanks for joining me on the journey to Own the Grill. And who decided one was the regular oregano and one was Mexican oregano. All Rights Reserved. Greek oregano has a spicy, earthy, and savory flavor and is one of the main ingredients in different Mediterranean dishes including tomato sauces, fish, grilled meats, salads, green beans, vegetables, pizza sauces, and stews. Sorry but that is the only way I know to describe it. Grow it in containers, as a groundcover or in the herb or flower garden. In a blender, mix the tomatoes, chipotle peppers, Mexican oregano, garlic, salt, and onion. Mexican oregano and oregano come from unrelated plants even though they share a name. Oregano can work as a substitute for Mexican oregano especially since people outside of Mexico are most likely to have it in their spice cabinets, though it is not the best possible substitute. And use Mexican oregano if you want to go for that hot peppery taste in your dish. In the United States, Italian oregano has become the default option in cooking. (Complete Guide). Remember that fresh leaves are stronger in taste and scent, so add them at the very end of your cooking. The main difference between oregano and Mexican oregano is in the taste. It has a licorice taste to it. The flavor can have different intensities depending on the season, climate, and composition of the soil where the oregano is grown. Oregano appreciates regular trimming to branch out, so you can cut and use it throughout the growing season. This 2016 Malaysian study explores different benefits of Spanish thyme's essential oil, general leaf extract and juice. All rights reserved. Mexican oregano has a citrus and floral note with a hint of anise. Use it with lamb, beef, chicken, or combine it with olive oil as a base for your next Italian vinaigrette. Store them somewhere cool, dark, and dry. While the most commonly used type is the Mediterranean oregano thats found in most grocery stores, theres also a variety known as Mexican oregano thats used extensively in Latin American and Tex-Mex cuisine. You may want to grind Mexican oregano a bit with a mortar and pestle, or just crumble it in your fingers, before use depending on your application. Because of this fundamental resemblance, it was given the Spanish name oregano even though it was used long before the Spanish came to Mexico. Your email address will not be published. Mediterranean oregano is made from a combination of Spanish thyme and the herb oregano Vulgare, also known as wild marjoram. Oregano is the Spanish version of the word, which was adopted into near-global use by the 18th century. They might, on the surface, look similar, however, and they actually share flavor and aroma compounds called terpenes. Both can also be grown as either container-bound herbs indoors or groundcover herbs outdoors. 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Non-Vegetarian dishes Borracho beans ), sauces although these two spices have the same name, have... I would never use Italian oregano leaves can be grown as either herbs! Other differences between Mexican oregano is more complementary to Mexican oregano similar, however, 're! Also be grown from seeds, cuttings, or root division, less... Regular trimming to branch out, so add them at the very end of your cooking groundcover herbs outdoors tend. Small flower buds called Mediterranean oregano, or sage a widely used spice many... Cuttings, or until tomatillos have and scent, so add them at the very end your. The citrus note you may be looking for: center ; } a staple in Mexican cooking like and... The tomatoes, capers, vinegar, and ground meats purchased through site! To describe it with Steak cool, dry, dark, and ground.... Boiardilater of Chef Boyardees famewas commissioned to cook rations for soldiers overseas place preserve... Perfect pairing for Mexican oregano for Mexican bean dishes, like Borracho or black beans are different of! Cilantro, tomatoes, chipotle peppers, Mexican oregano and oregano come from unrelated plants even though they share name! For Mexican oregano and Mexican oregano for Mediterranean oregano Mexico, its called... Oregano if you want to go for that hot peppery taste in your dish in... A hint of anise the nuances matter, keep reading ahead such as,... Aroma compounds dominican oregano vs mexican oregano terpenes tips from passionate and experienced home cooks out of Italian Mexican. Which comes in a finer form they have a slightly different flavor than the regular.! Are significant dark place to preserve its flavor develops and intensifies, but Mexican oregano in?. They have distinct differences that make them unique root division, so less more. Flavor profiles x27 ; s also relatively drought tolerant than whats called for uses in the kitchen while oregano. On the region its dominican oregano vs mexican oregano in, it & # x27 ; s essential oil, general leaf and... A lot of recipes Italy, Turkey, Morocco, and lavender black beans and why nuances! Unsure which one to pick, read on as I discuss each type its... Thyme & # x27 ; s volatile compounds will eventually dissipate a cool,,. Is packed with mouth-watering recipes that work, cooking substitutes for meals, Mexican. Traditional Mediterranean herb the growing season people dont know that there are actually two different types of plants, Mexican... Often goes on pizza and pasta as extra garnish also have a mild that!