Oregano
by: Ben Parks
Origin:
Oregano was first used by the Ancient Greeks, (around 800-146 B.C.) it was then found by the Romans after they conquered Greece. The Romans spread it all throughout Europe. Oregano finally found its way to America through the period of European Western Expansion that went on during the late 1400s to the late 1600s. Oregano is now a common herb used throughout many cultures today.
Botanical Information:
Oregano is an herb, part of the mint family, it is native to the warm temperatured climates of Eurasia and the Mediterranean in Europe. The leaves are what is used for the herb in this plant.
Common Culinary Uses:
Oregano is commonly used in pizza, and is popular in many Italian and Mexican dishes. It also goes along with hot and spicy foods very well and is a common choice in those dishes. Oregano can add zest to chicken and fish as well.
Sample Recipe: Bacon Herb Tenderloin Roast
- 1 beef tenderloin roast (about 4 pounds), at room temperature
- 1 Tablespoon (about) Worcestershire sauce
- 1 large clove garlic, cut into thin slivers
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 4 sprigs fresh oregano
- 10 fresh basil leaves
- 6 to 7 strips bacon, cut in half
Sweet or Savory: Pizza (Savory)
Oregano is most comonly used in pizza of any kind. Pizza is a savory food.
Fresh or Dried:
Oregano can be used as both, either fresh or dried, however, fresh provides a little bit more full flavor.
Health Benefits:
Oregano has many health benefits, and posesses more antioxidants than any other food, causing it to be effective as oregano oil in antibiotics. Oregano has high amounts of vitamin K, manganese, iron, and fibers. Oregano has also been known to help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancers, and can treat respiratory disorders.
Interesting Facts:
- Oregano means "Joy of the mountain" in ancient Greek.
- When in bloom they have beautiful pink and purple flowers that are edible.
- Some ancient cultures believed that if you anointed yourself with Oregano you would dream about your future spouse.
- Became most popular in the late 1940s, after WWII. This was due to the fact that U.S. soldiers returning home from the war were craving traditional American pizza.