Collection: Oregano

What does oregano taste like?

Italian cuisine gets much of its considerable zest from oregano.  It is aromatic and slightly bitter. The spice ajwain has notes of oregano amongst anise and black pepper in its profile. Oregano is part of the mint family, native to Eurasia and the East Mediterranean region. 

Can you use fresh and dry oregano interchangeably?

Oregano is considered more flavourful when dried than fresh. The fresh version is sharper, whereas the dried is more aromatic and milder. Due to their differences, they are best used separately, but if substituting, remember they have very differing ratios. 

What flavours go with Oregano?

  • Aubergine
  • Potatoes
  • Marjoram
  • Thyme
  • Tomato
  • Garlic
  • Sage
  • Chives
  • Bay leaves
  • Nigella seeds

Both Oregano and Thyme share the same compound called thymol. Our 13th-century AD mixed herb blend Baqa and 14th-century AD all-purpose Sofrito both have examples of oregano with thyme amongst other alchemy. 

What are the health benefits of oregano? 

Oregano has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, often used to treat respiratory tract infections. Oregano is rich in Vitamin K and fibre, which can aid digestive health.

What are interesting facts about oregano?

  • The ancient Greeks believed that Aphrodite invented oregano to give to your man to make him happier. Perhaps we all need a little bit of oregano. 
  • After the Second World War, it arrived in America by soldiers who came across it during the Italian campaign. 
  • Folklore myths suggest oregano mixed with olive oil would cure baldness by rubbing it on your head. People would also grow it near their homes to protect them from evil. In the Greek translation, it means "joy of the mountains". 
  • Oregano is another herb placed under your pillow to bring on psychic dreams. 

What is the chief flavour profile in oregano?

Thymol: (thyme, penetrating and cooling) is a flavour compound found in Oregano. Individuals often detect a similarity between oregano and nigella because of a medicinal-tasting compound they both share. Bay, nutmeg and nigella all complement the oregano profile.

Shop Spices With Oregano