Description
- Oregano is an herb composed of the fresh or dried leaves of the oregano plant.
- The plant has tiny leaves that lend a pungent aroma and strong flavor to a variety of savory foods.
- Common oregano is botanically known as Origanum vulgare, Greek for "joy of the mountains."
- Dried oregano can be added early in the cooking process for sauces and stews as its flavors will stand up to cooking.
- Oregano can be used in more than just pizza and pasta sauce.
- Store dried oregano in a cool, dark, dry area in an airtight container (glass preferred).
Oregano is a familiar herb that many people know from dishes such as pizza and pasta sauce. One of the most widely-used herbs worldwide, it is found in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine and is even one of the components of chili powder. The dried form is very common, but fresh oregano is also employed in some dishes. You can find it year-round in both forms.