Mexican oregano comes from a flowering plant that is native to Mexico, Central America and the southwest United States. It is drought tolerant so thrives in these dry climates. It is known for its earthy flavor with citrus undertones. The plant is in the same family as lemon verbena, so you’ll notice some similarities.
Can I substitute Mexican oregano for regular oregano?
You can substitute oregano for Mexican oregano, but the taste may be different from what you’re looking for. Mexican oregano, in fact, tends to be stronger and earthier, so less is more if you’re substituting it for traditional oregano.
What is equivalent to Mexican oregano?
Marjoram
Marjoram is the best Mexican oregano substitute. Marjoram is a better substitute for Mexican oregano than even Greek oregano is because the flavor profile is more similar. According to Isabel eats Mexican Oregano is sometimes referred to as Mexican Marjoram or Mexican wild sage.
Is Mexican oregano the same as Italian?
Each plant comes from completely different families which explains why their flavor is different. The Mexican variety is pungent and citrusy with a subtle anise undertone; Italian Oregano has a slightly sweeter, more subtle flavor and it’s likely to be the spice that you’re currently using in cooking.
Does Mexican oregano taste different?
In other words, Mexican oregano is completely different from what we consider “regular” oregano, a fact that would become obvious if you tasted the two side-by-side. Where Mediterranean oregano is sweet, with anise notes, Mexican oregano is grassy, with citrus notes.
Where do I find Mexican oregano?
Luckily, Mexican oregano is easy to find. In the U.S. it’s supplied by staple grocery store brands like McCormick and Badia as well as most Mexican and Latin American grocers and online retailers like Curio Spice Co., the Spice House, and Rancho Gordo. So grab a jar when you see one!
Is Mexican oregano the same as cilantro?
The Mexican herb will give you a more darker and robust flavor. While cilantro will give you a much brighter taste with lemony and citrusy notes that’s perfect for salads. Both have herby and earthy flavors though, enough that you can use it for any dish that asks for Mexican oregano.
Can you eat Mexican oregano?
Mexican oregano has a sweetness and intensity that many gourmets prefer to the flavor of the true European or Mediterranean species. The leaves are a wonderful flavoring for fish, meatballs, sausage, tomato sauces, or any recipe requiring a strong oregano essence.
Which oregano is best?
Origanum vulgare: This is the species most commonly known as oregano. Its best known variety is Greek oregano (Origanum vulgare var. hirtum). Sometimes known as true oregano or Italian oregano, this is the familiar herb used on pizzas and in tomato sauces.
Is Mexican oregano strong?
Mexican oregano carries a slight anise flavor with underlying notes of lemon and citrus. It is quite earthy and imparts a rather strong flavor when used in cooking. For this reason, we recommend starting small and working your way up so you don’t end up overpowering your dish.
What is the difference between oregano and Italian oregano?
Oregano from these areas is robust in flavor, though different varieties may be more bitter, sweet, or peppery than others. Greek oregano tends to be the most savory and earthy, while Italian is milder and Turkish is more pungent.
What’s the difference between Mediterranean and Mexican oregano?
The Mediterranean oregano was milder and faintly sweeter, while the Mexican type was stronger, with a hint of menthol. As with other dried herbs, oregano’s volatile compounds will eventually dissipate. Whichever kind you choose, be sure to store it in a cool, dry, dark place to preserve its flavor.
Which oregano is healthiest?
Greek oregano
The essential oil of Greek oregano is considered the best in the world, as recent studies have shown it to have the highest content in carvacrol and thymol, both of which have powerful antioxidant and cancer-fighting properties. It has antibiotic and antiseptic properties as well.
Is Mexican oregano bitter?
Mexican Oregano, Lippia graveolens, is a relative newcomer to US palates. This Mexican herb is strong and pungent and, like its Greek counterpart, delivers bitter and peppery flavors.
Is Mexican oregano invasive?
Stems: No thorns. Roots: Non-invasive. Wildlife: Attracts pollinating insects. Its flavor usually discourages browsing mammals.
Is Mexican oregano the same as Cuban oregano?
Mexican oregano is not the same as Cuban oregano. The two herbs come from different plants and have different flavor profiles. The leaves of Cuban oregano have a scent that is a mixture of oregano, thyme, and turpentine. The flavor of Cuban oregano is similar to oregano, but with a stronger mint flavor.
What is cilantro called in South America?
In some countries in Latin America, cilantro (Coriandrum sativum) is called culantro (Eryngium foetidum) and culantro is called cilantro (Figure 2). In some cases, culantro is called cilantro de hoja ancha (wide-leaf cilantro in Spanish), to distinguish it from cilantro (Coriandrum sativum).
Is Mexican oregano a spice?
Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) is a type of herb that is closely related to mint. It is a great herb to have on hand for adding flavor to your dishes.
Why do Mexicans use cilantro?
While there is no set reason as to why cilantro is used in Mexican food, it could be attributed to the way it helps to balance the spice and bold flavors associated with many popular dishes. It is a testament to how even the smallest ingredient can make a huge difference in taste and experience.
Who should not take oregano?
Allergies: Oregano can cause reactions in people allergic to Lamiaceae family plants, including basil, hyssop, lavender, marjoram, mint, and sage. Diabetes: Oregano might lower blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should use oregano cautiously. Surgery: Oregano might increase the risk of bleeding.
What are the health benefits of Mexican oregano?
Health benefits
Mexican oregano contains naringenin, a bioflavonoid which helps to prevent heart disease, cancer, and even Alzheimers. It contains cirsimaritin that helps to prevent the storage of fat, hence aids in weight loss. It also contain Quercetin that helps to fight virus and microbes in the body.