Mexican oregano is a unique variety of herb, with a flavor that is both peppery and slightly sweet. It is used in both Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking and has a wide range of medicinal uses. Read more to explore everything there is to know about Mexican oregano!
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What Is Mexican Oregano?
Mexican Oregano (Lippia Graveolens), which is also known as Wild Oregano, Mexican marjoram, and even Mexican wild sage, has a unique flavor that is very strong and similar to that of regular oregano, however, it has a citrusy note as well.
This type of herb is closely related to mint and it is not related to the common oregano, often used in Meditteranean cuisine.
It has been known for a long time for its medicinal properties, and it has been added to ailments to help some illnesses, such as stomachache, cold, or headache, however, it is mostly found in spice blends, especially those used in Mexican food and Tex-Mex cuisines.
Origins of Mexican Oregano
Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) is a zesty, fragrant herb derived from a flowering plant native to Mexico, Central America, and the United States' southwest.
Since it belongs to the same verbena family as lemon verbena, it has a similar flavour. It is a common seasoning used in pozole, black beans, and a variety of meat recipes in Mexico.
It's an all-purpose seasoning in Latin American kitchens that may be found in just about any recipe. Drought tolerant, the herb flourishes in arid regions.
What Do They Taste Like?
It has a strong, pungent aroma with notes of citrus, mint, and sage. The flavor is similarly potent, with a sharp initial savor that mellows into a more herbal taste with some citrus notes.
It is often used as a seasoning for poultry, fish, and beef dishes, as well as in soups and sauces. It can also be used to make a flavorful tea.
What’s The Difference Between Regular Oregano And Mexican Oregano?
If you're a fan of Italian or Mexican cuisine, you're probably familiar with Italian oregano. This herb is commonly used to add an earthy flavor to authentic Mexican dishes, and it's also known for its unique aroma.
But did you know that there are actually two different types of oregano? Regular oregano (Origanum vulgare) and Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens) are both members of the mint family, but they have some distinct differences.
- Regular oregano also called Mediterranean oregano is native to the Mediterranean region and has a mild, slightly sweet taste mostly used on top of pizzas and in pasta sauces.
- Mexican oregano, on the other hand, is native to Mexico and South America and has a stronger, more pungent flavor.
- In terms of appearance, Mediterranean oregano has small, oval-shaped leaves, while Mexican oregano has larger, Pointed leaves.
So, which type of oregano should you use in your Mexican cooking? That depends on your personal preference. If you want a milder taste, go with regular or greek oregano an Italian and Mediterranean spice. If you prefer a stronger taste, go with Lippia graveolens.
How To Use It
The leaves of the Mexican oregano plant are used fresh or dried. It can be used in place of regular oregano in any recipe. It is also a good addition to chili, salsa, and guacamole. Here are a few ways you can use the herb:
- It is commonly used in tacos, enchiladas, and chili.
- It can also be used to add taste to soups and stews.
- The herb can also be used to make a simple seasoning blend.
- To make a simple blend, combine equal parts Mexican oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground cumin. This can be used to season the chicken, beef, pork, or fish.
How To Grow
It is easy to grow, and it can be started from seed or cuttings. The plant prefers full sun and well-drained soil, and it should be watered regularly. Once established, it will thrive with minimal care.
Thankfully, it's also relatively easy to grow at home. Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Choose a sunny spot in your garden for your Mexican oregano plants. They will need at least six hours of sunlight each day.
- Prepare the soil by loosening it and adding compost or other organic matter. This will help the roots to spread and anchor the plant.
- Plant your oregano seedlings or cuttings about 18 inches apart. Once they are established, you can trim them back to encourage bushier growth.
- Water regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy. These plants are drought-tolerant, so you don't need to worry about watering them constantly.
- Harvest your oregano regularly to keep the plants from getting too woody. Clip off the leaves as needed, being careful not to damage the stem.
With a little care, you can have fresh herb growing in your own garden in no time!
Mexican Oregano Substitute
If you're looking for a substitute for Mexican oregano, there are a few options available.
- One possibility is to use regular oregano from your spice rack. This herb has a similar flavor to Mexican oregano, so it will work well in most recipes.
- Some other common substitutes for Mexican oregano include marjoram, thyme, and basil. If you're looking for a replacement that will offer a similar flavor profile, then marjoram is a good option.
- Thyme also has a similar flavor, but it is slightly more pungent than Mexican oregano.
- Basil is another option, but it has a milder taste than Lippia graveolens.
Ultimately, the best way to find a substitute for Mexican oregano is to experiment until you find an herb that works for you.
Recommend Reading: The Ultimate List of Best Italian Spices
People Also Ask [FAQs]
Mexican oregano is small and bushy. The leaves are gray-green and have a strong, pungent aroma. The small, white flowers bloom in the summer.
When you find Mexican oregano, look for fresh leaves that are glossy and green in color, before buying. It can be found in most grocery stores in the herbs and spice aisle. It is usually sold in small plastic bags.
Wrap up: Mexican Oregano
- 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.
- It's easy to grow, and you can find it in most grocery stores.
- The leaves of the plant are used fresh or dried, and they can be added to soups, stews, tacos, and chili.
- There are many ways to store the herb but be sure to keep your oregano away from light and heat.
Recipe
How To Store Mexican oregano
Ingredients
- 1 jar Mexican oregano or as per your desired quantity
Instructions
- One option is to dry the herb by hanging it upside down in a dark, cool place. Once the oregano is completely dry, you can store it in an airtight container.
- Another way to store is to freeze it. Simply chop the herb into small pieces and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen oregano will retain its flavor profile for several months. To use the frozen herb, simply remove the leaves from the freezer and chop as needed. There is no need to thaw first.
- You can also make a flavorful oregano oil by steeping the herb in olive oil for several weeks. Store the oil in a dark, cool place and use it as needed.
- Finally, you can also preserve it by pickling it. This method will require some advance planning, but it's well worth the effort.
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