Oregano or oregano is a fragrant, slightly bitter seasoning popular in Italian, Spanish, Greek cuisine. It goes well with meat, beans, tomatoes, egg dishes. Oregano is often referred to as the "pizza spice"
Benefits of oregano
Oregano is widely known among naturopaths, because this spice has been used for centuries in various, not only culinary, recipes. The fresh spice is rich in iron, manganese, antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Dried and fresh herb has immunomodulatory properties and helps fight allergies and lung infections. Dried oregano is combined with other dried herbs such as basil, rosemary and thyme to aid digestion and can also help soothe coughs.
Oregano essential oil contains polyester compounds of thymol and carvacrol, which have antibacterial properties. Doctors say that due to these oils, the spice is an excellent natural remedy for giardia. Applying oregano oil topically helps with some fungal skin infections. Oregano oil is also used to relieve symptoms of arthritis, tendonitis, and tunnel syndrome. Oregano oil lotions can help fight yeast, fungal and viral infections.
Oregano essential oil is not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.
Oregano in cooking
Before use, fresh oregano is thoroughly washed, dried, and then rubbed between the palms to force the leaves to release as much essential oils as possible. Oregano is placed in a dish with whole twigs, separate leaves, or chopped with special scissors for grass along with the stem. The stem of the plant is somewhat fibrous and may be difficult for you to cut with a knife.
Use oregano to flavor Italian pizza and pasta sauces. Oregano combines perfectly with other Mediterranean herbs to form a magnificent harmonious bouquet. Dried or fresh oregano is added to the famous vinegar sauce to give it a Greek or Italian flavor. Combined with other ingredients, this spice is great for marinating lamb, beef or chicken, as well as for seasoning fresh meat or minced meat. Combined with lemon and olive oil, oregano is great for fish. Season oregano with scrambled eggs or fritatta and these dishes will have a new flavor.
Several varieties of oregano are used in cooking. The most common Italian oregano, Greek and Mexican spice varieties are common.
Oregano is part of the famous "garni bouquet" - a set of spices often used in French cuisine to flavor various soups, broths and stews. In addition to oregano, this "bouquet" includes thyme, basil, parsley, rosemary, tarragon and bay leaves.
