Is Greek oregano regular oregano?

Is Greek oregano regular oregano?

Common Types of Oregano 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 there a Greek oregano?

A subspecies of Origanum vulgare, Greek oregano is a slightly spicy herb with an earthy flavor. Native to dry rocky mountainous regions in the Mediterranean, it is commonly used as a seasoning for pizza, sauces, meats, and salads. This perennial herb is hardy from USDA Zones 5 to 10.

What is Greek cut oregano?

Greek Oregano, native to the greater Mediterranean region, comes from a different plant than Mexican Oregano, and is related to marjoram. It is also sometimes called Wild Marjoram, and its flavor is also similar to marjoram. It is more piney and mint-like than Mexican Oregano.

What is Greek oregano called?

Essential Herb in Greek Cuisine Greek oregano is called “rigani,” pronounced REE-gah-nee. Oregano is sold fresh and dried as cuttings of flower tops and leaves packaged in disposable containers or as dried, ground leaves packaged in sprinkle-pour bottles.

How do I use Greek oregano?

Greek oregano is a necessity on grilled meats, kabobs and lamb. With notes of pine and mint, its spicy flavor enhances tomato sauce and vegetable stews. Try it on a quick egg scramble, first sauteing a chopped tomato in a tablespoon of Greek olive oil. Add eggs, sprinkle with crumbled Greek oregano and cook.

How is Greek oregano different from other oregano?

What’s the distinction between Greek, Italian, Turkish, and Mexican 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.

Where does Greek oregano grow?

Keep moist. Oregano must be planted in a full sun location and good drainage is required for best growth and overwintering. True oregano is marginally hardy in zone 5. Many of the really desirable types are treated as tender perennials and may need to be brought indoors for the winter.

Is Greek oregano medicinal?

Medicinal Uses Greek Oregano was originally used extensively as a medicinal herb. Oregano tea is still frequently used to ease symptoms of indigestion, coughs and to stimulate menstruation.

What is the Greek word for oregano?

The word oregano is actually a derivation from Greek words ‘Oros’ meaning mounting, and ‘Ganos’ meaning joy. Thus the word oregano means ‘the mountain of joy’. According to Greek mythology, oregano was created by goddess Aphrodite as a symbol of happiness.

What parts of oregano are edible?

Edible parts of Oregano: Leaves – raw or cooked as a potherb. Oregano is an important flavouring herb in Mediterranean cookery , and is often used dried rather than fresh. The leaves are used as a flavouring for salad dressings, vegetables and legumes, and are frequently included in strongly flavoured dishes with chillies, garlic, onions etc.

Is oregano a spice or a herb?

Oregano is a Mediterranean spice that masquerades as a herb. The name oregano is derived from the Greek words oros, for “mountain,” and ganos, for “joy” or “splendour.”. According to legend, the Greek goddess Aphrodite created aromatic oregano as a symbol of joy and grew it in her garden on Mount Olympus .

What is a substitute for Mexican oregano?

Thyme is a good substitute for the oregano in chicken cacciatore . There are a few different herbs and spices that can be used to substitute oregano. Dried marjoram is often substituted for oregano. Dill can be used as an oregano substitute in tomato-based dishes. Basil can be substituted for oragano in potato dishes.