Oregano
A herb
Orgin
oregano is native to warm-temperate western and southwestern Eurasia and the Mediterranean region.
Botanical information
The main part of the plant that we use to make the herb is the leaves
Culinary Uses
This herb is usually used in italian dishes because of the strong taste. Used in savory and spicy dishes such as pizzas, pastas, and soups also commonly used to flavor meats, fish and poultry. Oregano can be used fresh or dried it is most commonly used fresh because it is more flavorful when fresh rather than dried.
Heath Benefits
oregano can be used to treat respiratory tract disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, menstrual cramps, and urinary tract disorders. can also be used topically to treat dandruff and acne. Also a rich source of vitamin K
Interesting Facts
Oregano means Joy of The Mountain in Ancient Greek
Called the pizza herb
Ancient greeks believed if you ate enough oregano you would dream about your future spouse
The flowers that bloom off of the oregano plant are also edible
Chemical compounds in oregano repel insects
Italian Vegetable Soup
Yield: Serves 6-8.
- 1/4 pound mushrooms, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 onions, chopped
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon basil
- 1 tablespoon oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- Pinch of thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1/4 cup white wine
- 2 tablespoons tamari sauce
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups cooked chickpeas
- 1 zucchini, finely sliced
- 1 large green pepper, cut in julienne strips
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Saute mushrooms, garlic, and onions in hot oil. Add seasonings, tomatoes, honey, wine, tamari, and vegetable broth and cook about 1 hour. Add chickpeas, zucchini, green pepper, and parsley, and cook until vegetables are tender.