Also known as Wild Marjoram, oregano refers to the flavorful dried leaves and flowering tops of various perennial herbs in the mint family.
Originating from the hills of the Mediterranean and western Asia, oregano has been a staple in Mediterranean cuisine for its strong aroma and warm, pungent, and bitter taste, enhancing a variety of dishes.
Primarily used in tomato sauces, fried vegetables, and grilled meat, oregano is a key ingredient in Italian cuisine, often paired with basil on pizzas. It also holds significance in Spanish, French, and Greek cooking, adding depth of flavor to various dishes. Additionally, oregano plays a crucial role in Mexican cuisine, particularly in dishes like chili con carne.
Oregano is not traditionally widely used in Asian cuisine, but its popularity has increased in recent years thanks to globalization, which has led to a greater interest in experimenting with new flavours and ingredients. Oregano’s robust flavour can complement various Asian dishes. For example, incorporating oregano into a stir-fry with lemongrass, garlic, ginger, and your choice of vegetables and protein can add an unexpected depth to the dish.
Marinating chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of oregano before grilling adds a unique twist to the traditional Asian marinade. Oregano may not be the first herb you think of when preparing an Asian dish, but it can add a unique aromatic dimension to soups, stir-fries, and marinades, contributing to the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of Asian cuisine.