admin For people who never ever had Mexican food, hearing the word “Mexican Oregano” may pop up a few questions in their mind. And we obviously know what those questions would be – ‘What is Mexican Oregano?’ and “How is it different from regular Oregano?’ Well, that’s what we will answer today.
While many of you might have started to relate Mexican Oregano to its origin country, it’s not just the name that makes it different from True Oregano but also its properties. True Oregano, often used in Mediterranean cuisine, is a part of the mint family, but Mexican Oregano relates to the verbena family. However, both herbs share similar flavor and aroma compounds—terpenes—which makes them smell similar.
But when you smell them side by side, you will sure to find differences. True Oregano has a sweet, bitter, and peppery taste. On the other hand, Mexican Oregano has a citrus taste with a hint of anise. In this blog, we will help you understand Mexican oregano’s properties and how it differs from other species.
What is Mexican Oregano?
Mexican oregano is an herb commonly used in Mexican cooking. It is different from the regular oregano you might find in Italian dishes. Mexican oregano has a stronger, more earthy flavor with hints of citrus and licorice.
This herb comes from a plant called Lippia graveolens, which is related to lemon verbena. The plant has small, bight green leaves and grows in Mexico, Guatemala, and parts of South America.
Mexican oregano is often used in recipes for roasted meats, beans, and spicy dishes. It pairs well with bold flavors like chili peppers and is a main ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes like pozole and black beans. You can use it fresh or dried, but it is more commonly used in its dried form.
The best thing about Mexican oregano is that it retains its flavor well, even when dried. However, if you don’t have Mexican oregano, you can use marjoram as a substitute, though the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
How Mexican Oregano is Different from Regular Oregano?
Mexican oregano has a distinct citrusy flavor with a touch of licorice. On the other hand, regular oregano is a common herb in Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, often used in pasta sauces, grilled meats, seafood, and pizza.
The term “oregano” comes from the Greek words “oros” (mountain) and “ganos” (joy), meaning “joy of the mountains” or “mountain of happiness.”
Oregano plants spread across Mediterranean hillsides, giving off a pleasant aroma and displaying tiny flowers. Meanwhile, Mexican oregano is a wild shrub that grows naturally in Mexico, Guatemala, and parts of South America. It can grow up to five feet tall.
How to Use Mexican Oregano?
Mexican oregano is known for its strong and bold flavor. You only need a little bit to make a big impact. You can add fresh sprigs of Mexican oregano inside poultry or whole fish to give the meat a gentle, earthy taste as it cooks.
This herb is great for meat dishes, stews, chili, and side dishes. Use it in ground beef tacos, chicken tinga tacos, and more to add a rich, savory flavor.
What are the Benefits of Mexican Oregano?
Did you know that Mexican oregano also has many health benefits? Here are some of the key benefits:
Rich in Antioxidants
Mexican oregano is packed with antioxidants. These are substances that help protect your cells from damage. Antioxidants can help reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease and cancer.
Anti-inflammatory Properties
This herb has natural anti-inflammatory properties. This means it can help reduce inflammation in your body. Inflammation is linked to many health problems, such as arthritis and heart disease.
Supports Digestive Health
Mexican oregano can help improve digestion. It can reduce bloating and gas and prevent stomach cramps, making it a great addition to your diet if you have digestive issues.
Boosts Immune System
Mexican oregano can help boost your immune system. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which means it can help your body fight off infections. This can help you stay healthy and avoid getting sick.
Rich in Nutrients
Mexican oregano is a good source of vitamins and minerals. It contains vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, iron, and manganese. These nutrients are important for your overall health and well-being.
Improves Respiratory Health
This herb can also help improve your respiratory health. It can help relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis. It can also help reduce coughing and congestion.
What is Mexican Oregano Used for?
Apart from cooking, Mexican Oregano has other uses, which include –
Cooking
Mexican oregano is great for adding flavor to soups, stews, and sauces. It pairs well with beans, tomatoes, and meats. For extra taste, you can sprinkle it on tacos, enchiladas, and chili.
Health Benefits
This herb also has health benefits. Mexican oregano is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain.
Tea
Some people make tea with Mexican oregano. The tea can help with digestion and soothe a sore throat. Just steep a few leaves in hot water for a few minutes.
Aromatherapy
The strong scent of Mexican oregano can be used in aromatherapy. It can help relieve stress and improve mood. You can add a few drops of oregano oil to a diffuser or mix it with a carrier oil for a relaxing massage.
Gardening
Mexican oregano is also used in gardening. It is a hardy plant that can grow in various conditions. It attracts bees and butterflies, which are good for your garden.
Is There a Substitute for Mexican Oregano?
You can use regular oregano instead of Mexican oregano, but keep in mind they don’t taste the same. Mexican oregano has a slightly sour taste, unlike regular oregano.
Mexican oregano has a lemon-like citrus flavor, making it perfect for authentic Mexican dishes, which are often sour and spicy. Regular oregano lacks this citrus note and is less sour.
Marjoram, which has a similar taste, is a better substitute for Mexican oregano. It is also an oregano plant, so it can grow year-round and needs the same care as Mexican oregano.
However, you might need to add a bit of lime to marjoram to match the sourness of Mexican oregano. You can add more lime juice if you love a very sour taste.
Conclusion
Mexican oregano is a flavorful and aromatic spice that is widely used in Mexican cusine. Unlike Greek oregano, which is common in Mediterranean and Italian dishes, Mexican oregano has a grassy and citrusy taste that enhances many recipes.
If you don’t have Mexican oregano, you can substitute marjoram. Additionally, Mexican oregano can be used in place of cilantro. To get the best flavor from Mexican oregano, crush the leaves in your hands before adding them to your dish.
FAQs
What is Another Name for Mexican Oregano?
Mexican oregano is also known as Mexican marjoram, wild oregano, and Mexican wild sage.
Is Mexican Oregano the Same as Cilantro?
No, Mexican oregano and cilantro are not the same. Cilantro comes from the coriander plant and belongs to the parsley family, while Mexican oregano is part of the vervain family.
Is Mexican Oregano Sweet?
Mexican oregano is not typically sweet. Its bold, earthy, and citrusy flavor with hints of licorice distinguishes it from regular oregano.
What Ingredients are in Mexican Oregano?
Mexican oregano itself is an herb derived from the Lippia graveolens plant. It contains essential oils and compounds contributing to its unique flavor and aroma.
Is Mexican Oregano Good for You?
Yes, Mexican oregano is considered healthy. It contains antioxidants and has antiviral and antibacterial properties, which benefit digestive and respiratory health.
Does Mexican Oregano have Side Effects?
While generally safe, Mexican oregano can cause allergic reactions in some people. Large amounts may upset the stomach, and oregano oil can cause skin rashes.
Is Mexican Mint and Oregano the Same?
No, Mexican mint and Mexican oregano are different. Mexican oregano belongs to the vervain family, while Mexican mint is a term sometimes used for Cuban oregano, which is a different plant.
What is Mexican Oregano Good For?
Mexican oregano is excellent for seasoning Mexican and Latin American dishes like salsas, chili, beans, and stews. It also has medicinal uses for digestive and respiratory issues.
How Long Does Mexican Oregano Last?
Dried Mexican oregano can last up to 18 months if stored properly. Fresh oregano, when refrigerated, can last up to two weeks.
How to Store Mexican Oregano?
You should store dried Mexican oregano in an airtight container away from light. Fresh oregano should be wrapped in a damp paper towel, placed in a plastic bag, and kept in the refrigerator.