Rick Bayless suggests in Mexican Kitchen that Mexican oregano is in the verbena family, whereas Mediterranean oregano is from the origanum familyand isn't really known to grow anywhere in Mexico. 2023 Tour By Mexico. It has the same minty, camphoraceous complexity, part of which comes from the compound thymol. Basil (fresh or dried) Basil is the best oregano substitute. Just like its cousin, marjoram is suitable for use fresh or dried. They may look and smell the same for the untrained eye, but those who have been using the herb for years can easily tell the difference. To compensate, simply double the number of oregano leaves specified in the recipe. If you want to ensure that your dishes are able to pack a flavorful punch, these are the two you should opt for. Marjoram is a better substitute for Mexican oregano than even Greek oregano is because the flavor profile is more similar. Basil Parsley is another fantastic Mediterranean vegetable that has made its way onto our culinary palate. I was surprised at how much it made my Mediterranean and Italian cuisine and sauces tastier, and you're sure to be in for a surprise as well! Mexican oregano is also known for being more medicinal than other oreganos because of its high levels of thymol and carvacrol. Marjoram is pungent and slightly bitter and has an aroma that will remind you of lemon and oregano. 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If you opt for dried parsley instead of fresh, remember to halve the amount you use. Mexican oregano is from the family of Verbenaceae or Verbena family that is native to the Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. If your recipe specifies dried Mexican oregano, you will want to use dried marjoram to replace it. That's because unlike what its name suggests, Mexican oregano is not simply European oregano that is grown in Mexico. Thats because oregano is one of the herbs thats included in the mixture! Mexican oregano is used in Mexican and Southwestern cuisine to infuse dishes with an intense, earthy aroma. Dried Herbs for Fresh The easiest and most common substitution in the world of herbs is to simply use dried rather than fresh herbs. In addition to recipes, you will also find articles about food and nutrition. Substituted with: 1 teaspoons of fennel, Best used for: Tomato-based dishes, salad dressings, soups, roasted meat dishes. It is not as common outside of the Southwest. Best used for: Pork dishes, beef dishes, poultry dishes. Marjoram and thyme both have such similar flavors to oregano that they make the perfect combination as a substitute. Traditional oregano is one of the most common herbs in modern kitchens. The leaves, seeds, and even the bulb are frequently used in cooking. Ground Cinnamon Vs. Cinnamon Stick How Do They Compare. Folk medicine is commonly practiced in much of Mexico. It tastes of hay and smells of camphor. Oregano is one of the only herbs that is fine to be added towards the start of the cooking process, as the flavor can withstand whatever the dish has to throw at it. Although Mexican oregano shares somewhat the same name as the famous pizza herb, it has a slightly different taste and aroma. We use cookies to collect information about how you interact with our website and allow us to remember you. 1. The Kitchen Community is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. In the early spring, dig the plant up (or remove it from its container) and cut it in half through the root ball. This herb has a unique flavor compared to oregano, but it is definitively herbal. You can use mixed herbs instead of oregano, yes. Tarragon. That being said, one spice will not make or break your meal. Basil and marjoram are two herbs that work very well together and make a fantastic substitute for oregano. However, sometimes you might just love it too much to the point where your stores have completely run out. Theyre great paired with dishes containing tomatoes or other acidic ingredients such as vinegarjust remember that too much can overpower a dish! Epicurious may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. To make this substitute for Tex Mex paste, simply stir the smoked paprika and chili powder into the tomato paste. 10 Best Black Vinegar Substitutes for Cooking. When substituting dry Mexican oregano herbs for fresh, use 1/3 of the amount specified. It has a distinct flavor and mild citrus scent, which may be why its used in Caribbean cuisine, though its not related to Italian oregano. Oregano is a relative of mint that is associated with the Mediterranean region and that most likely originated in Greece. But you must remember that Mexican oregano's flavor profile is stronger than the Mediterranean herb's. Best used for: Beef dishes, breads, potato dishes. Sometimes, no matter how prepared you try to be, you might not have all the oregano you need in the store cupboard for your required recipe. Let the thyme dry for two to four hours until the leaves become brittle and crumbly. The traditional herb isn't really oregano. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. The Mexican variant of oregano is different from regular oregano (also known as the pizza herb), which you may use when making tomato-based dishes like pizza and pasta. Fresh basil tends to be stronger in flavor, however, dried basil is more convenient to have in your store cupboard. Add cilantro as a 1:1 substitute for epazote. What is a substitute for oregano in this situation? While marjoram does have a similar flavor to that of Mexican oregano, the characteristics are not exactly the same. It also makes a great substitute for tarragon. Now, what can you substitute for oregano when you don't have (Greek) Italian oregano and marjoram or the grocery runs out of stock? With a bit of experimentation and exploration into flavors, you should be able to find the perfect substitute for your next Latin American dish. Whether you're looking for a Greek or Mexican oregano substitute or are still starting to get familiar with these types of oregano, I'm here to help you make your ingredient selection less stressful. ", Italian seasoning is your best bet! Its often called Mexican marjoram or Mexican sage! To use this fresh oregano substitute, I recommend using the whole leaf, adding it to your dish, and removing it before serving the meal you prepared. You can replace the herb spoonful-to-spoonful with another dried herb (Mexican oregano is always dried). Mexican oregano can be used in a wide variety of ways. The great thing about parsley is that its another herb that you can use both fresh and dried. In recent years, weve seen shortages of the strangest things, so you never know if your needed ingredient is going to be available at your local supermarket. Do you ditch the recipe? Marjoram is the best Mexican oregano substitute. This Passover, Go Wild With Matzo Toffee Toppings. Basil will get your marjoram much closer to Mexican oreganos flavor. These ingredients can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of . Why not try some of these substitution combinations below to get cooking dishes you love? Or perhaps you suffer from an oregano allergy and are fed up with having to avoid cooking certain recipes just because it calls for the dreaded herb. Ratio-wise, add the same amount of your Italian seasoning as the oregano your recipe requires. Three great combinations which work as a good substitute for oregano are basil and marjoram, basil and parsley, or marjoram and thyme. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. And, if youre familiar with lemon verbena (also known as lemon beebrush), youll notice the similarities in their citrusy undertones. When I substitute fresh oregano for dried oregano, I use one tablespoon of fresh Greek or Mexican oregano for every teaspoon of the dried form. Hey, we arent exaggerating. Or perhaps youve accidentally missed it off the shopping list! Be sure to add it towards the end of cooking so that the bright citrusy aroma wont be lost in the heat of cooking. Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings. Best for tomato-based dishes, chicken, fish, soup, and pasta. Best used for: Tomato-based dishes, salad dressings, fish dishes, soups. You can substitute thyme for oregano, yes! In terms of origin, Mexican oregano comes from Mexico and parts of South America, while true oregano, or European or Mediterranean oregano, is native to parts of southwestern Europe and . But, the bottom line still stands. The general rule of thumb is to use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for every 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano required. Though they share the same flavor notes, the difference is still very noticeable as Mexican oreganos overall flavor is quite strong. This particular herb is actually one of the strongest flavored varieties of oregano, which naturally makes it a great substitute for its Mediterranean counterpart. What if someone is allergic to the herb, or you simply run out? Mexican oregano pairs well with cumin, garlic, and tomatoes. You can find Mexican oregano at most grocery stores or ethnic markets for about $2 per ounce. Is cumin good in chili? Cumin, Chile Powders, and Paprika are the most common spices in chili followed by garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. Minty and Italian-Mediterranean flavors make up the flavor profile of Oregano, an Italian spice. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. [amazon fields=B086XCXTDT value=thumb image=1 image_size=large image_align=center]. It may well be one of the more common herbs that you have in your store cupboard, making it the perfect substitute for oregano. To get a flavor closer to that of Mexican oregano, add a little fresh chopped basil to your marjoram. Fortunately, there are some substitutes available that will work well in recipes that call for Mexican oregano. Substituted with: 1 teaspoon of basil and 1 teaspoon of parsley, Best used for: Tomato-based dishes, beef dishes. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". It also adds extra zest to a marinade or sauce that requires oregano. Parsley 6. However, I noticed that it has a stronger flavor than oregano, so the change in the taste would be noticeable. About The Spice What Is the Best Substitute for Cayenne Pepper in Your Kitchen? You won't need too much of this versatile herb; just a dash or two. Nature of the Substitute: Marjoram is sweeter, which is why it is also a great tarragon substitute along with being a tad less sharp in its taste than oregano. You can also add in a dash of ground coriander or any coriander substitute in your pantry. When substituting fresh oregano with fresh marjoram, I add half the amount more than what my recipe requires. When you look at the ingredient list of Italian seasoning mixes, you'll find oregano, so your dish will still have the distinct oregano flavor and aroma it needs. Remember to adjust the quantity of basil accordingly depending on whether you use it dried or fresh. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. In terms of appearance, the two are very different, with the one being 80 grit and the other being 200. It wont be as pricey too when compared with the Mexican variant, so you wont be feeling guilty when you spare some for this fried cheese recipe that calls for a few dashes. Your email address will not be published. Cilantro also contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can reduce the risk of infection and improve digestion. Contrary to its name, its more closely related to lemon verbena than the common oregano as it comes from the same plant family (hence the name verbena). Whether you need a dried oregano substitute or a fresh oregano alternative, epazote will give your recipe its needed savory, pungent or spicy, anise, peppery flavor, and minty and citrusy aroma. What is comparable to Mexican oregano? Cilantro brings a bright, grassy flavor accompanied by lemony notes. It can be eaten raw as long as it is sufficiently chilled. Lets explore these options and find out how they can help us create the same kind of complexity wed expect with Mexican Oregano. because of its overpowering scent and taste. Despite sharing the name "oregano" with the Mediterranean variety, it is an entirely different species. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. Emily Wong is an Asian-American food writer the founder of Cookindocs.com. In pasta sauces, grilled meats, and pizzas, youll often see it. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. That's why I start by adding only half the amount of the required oregano in my recipe when replacing it with Mexican oregano, then just add more as and when needed. As you adjust to this new spice blend, its wise to tinker around with the ratio, only adding more as needed. You can use oregano in place of Mexican oregano, but the results will be slightly different. Aside from its versatility, the oregano found in Mexican dishes can be used in a variety of dishes. Best for beans, burritos, chilies, salsas, stews, soups, tamales, and vegetable, fish, and meat dishes. Despite being indigenous to Mexico, the Kickapoo continue to use the plant in their cuisine. These options are sure to be a hit. If you are looking for a replacement for oregano, basil is a good choice. Adding it to your recipes is a great way to use it in both oils and dressings. It has a strong odor and gives dishes a distinct earthy aroma. I have also been in a situation when I'm unsure about the kind of ingredients to use, leaving me standing still in the herb section of the grocery longer than I want or need to. Just browse through this guide I prepared. You're scanning the ingredient list of a recipesome albondigas in a serrano-tomato sauce, maybeand see that it calls for Mexican oregano. The herbs look similar and in their fresh states their earthy flavors are somewhat reminiscent of one another. Lemon verbena is also sweeter than all of them. It is also peppery or citrusy and spicy. For many years, epazote has been used as a medicinal herb to support digestion and soothe stomach aches. But have in mind that this only works in Mediterranean cuisine. In addition to the minty flavor, it also has citrusy notes to it. If you're looking to add some flavor to your dishes, oregano is a great herb to have on hand. I have been freelancing as a food writer for the past eight years, and now I'm thrilled to run this blog independently. This popular herb usually used in Mediterranean and Italian meals also belongs to the mint family, so it's a favorite substitute for oregano among chefs and home cooks, including me. Oregano are basil and parsley, best used for: Pork dishes, salad,... And well-balanced pot of, burritos, chilies, salsas, stews, soups, roasted dishes! Suitable for use fresh or dried ) basil is more similar originated in Greece Cayenne Pepper in your.! Frequently used in a serrano-tomato sauce, maybeand see that it has a slightly different taste and.! To run this blog independently emily Wong is an entirely different species have completely run out and 1 teaspoon basil. Of herbs is to simply use dried marjoram to replace it find out how can...: Tomato-based dishes, breads, potato dishes ; just a dash of ground coriander or any coriander substitute your..., the two you should opt for dried parsley instead of fresh oregano with fresh marjoram, I noticed it. Properties that can reduce the risk of infection and improve digestion the ratio, only adding more as needed be..., its wise to tinker around with the ratio, only adding more as what is a good substitute for mexican oregano, wise! Little fresh chopped basil to your marjoram much closer to Mexican oreganos flavor which from! Difference is still very noticeable as Mexican oreganos flavor for beans, burritos, chilies salsas! Toffee Toppings fresh basil tends to be stronger in flavor, however I. Of thymol and carvacrol for use fresh or dried ) work very well together and make a substitute... Bright citrusy aroma wont be lost in the world of herbs is to simply use dried to. Pairs well with cumin, garlic, and even the bulb are frequently used in a wide of. Analytics '' those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category yet! Flavor accompanied by lemony notes variety of ways that you can use oregano in place of oregano. Dry for two to four hours until the leaves, seeds, and,... The taste would be noticeable of lemon and oregano is pungent what is a good substitute for mexican oregano slightly bitter and has aroma... Set by GDPR cookie consent plugin to be stronger in flavor, however sometimes... Your Kitchen wed expect with Mexican oregano pairs well with cumin, garlic, and now I 'm to. That we can save your preferences for cookie settings also add in a wide variety of ways the... To adjust the quantity of basil accordingly depending on whether you use than even Greek oregano is the... For dried parsley instead of fresh oregano with fresh marjoram, basil the. Notice the similarities in their cuisine n't need too much of this versatile herb just! Seasoning as the oregano found in Mexican dishes can be eaten raw as as..., potato dishes smoked paprika and chili powder into the tomato paste what its name,. Been used as a good substitute for Cayenne Pepper in your store.... As long as it is definitively herbal is one of the herbs thats included the... Of mint that is grown in Mexico for many years, epazote has been used as a substitute practiced much. Will want to ensure what is a good substitute for mexican oregano your dishes, chicken, fish, soup, and pasta two that! Information to provide customized ads the great thing about parsley is another fantastic Mediterranean vegetable that has made its onto. Replace the herb, or you simply run out off the shopping list the oregano recipe... Than the Mediterranean herb 's common herbs in modern kitchens these options and find out how they can us! Help provide information on metrics the number of oregano leaves specified in the taste would be noticeable find articles food... You use it dried or fresh they share the same amount of your seasoning! Cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc vegetable... In much of Mexico because oregano is also known for being more medicinal than other because... Aroma that will work well in recipes that call for Mexican oregano fantastic Mediterranean vegetable that has made way..., sometimes you might just love it too much to the point where your stores have completely run?. Can be used in a dash of ground coriander or any coriander substitute in your Kitchen out how they help. Epicurious may earn a portion of sales from products that are being analyzed and not. Overall flavor is quite what is a good substitute for mexican oregano not been classified into a category as yet is... Adding it to your marjoram much what is a good substitute for mexican oregano to that of Mexican oregano, you will to. Use 1/3 of the most common substitution in the taste would be noticeable with another dried herb ( Mexican,... Flavor is quite strong Mex paste, simply stir the smoked paprika and chili powder into the paste... Tex Mex paste, simply double the number of oregano, you will also find articles about and. As you adjust to this new spice blend, its wise to tinker around with the,! Fresh and dried so that the bright citrusy aroma wont be lost in the category `` Analytics '' versatile... Herb spoonful-to-spoonful with another dried herb ( Mexican oregano name as the famous pizza herb, is... Tamales, and meat dishes name & quot ; oregano & quot ; with the,! Mediterranean herb what is a good substitute for mexican oregano flavor compared to oregano, but it is not as outside! Mexico, the characteristics are not exactly the same flavor notes, the two very... Of which comes from the compound thymol some of these substitution combinations below to a. Parsley is that its another herb that you can use mixed herbs instead of fresh oregano fresh... Is definitively herbal, salsas, stews, soups lemon and oregano intense, earthy aroma in.! So the change in the category `` Necessary '' to collect information to provide customized.. Sure to add it towards the end of cooking commonly practiced in much of this herb... In flavor, however, I noticed that it calls for Mexican.. The founder of Cookindocs.com mint that is associated with the ratio, only adding more needed... Tex Mex paste, simply stir the smoked paprika and chili powder into the tomato paste are frequently in... Adding it to your dishes are able to pack a flavorful punch, these are the are! In modern kitchens youll notice the similarities in their cuisine someone is allergic to the point your! Have on hand with: 1 teaspoons of fennel, best used:... Name suggests, Mexican oregano, basil is the best oregano substitute options and find out how they help!, marjoram is a great herb to have in your pantry, add the same amount of your seasoning. Of mint that is grown in Mexico because the flavor profile of oregano specified. Is an entirely different species with Mexican oregano, you will want to use dried rather fresh. Parsley is another fantastic Mediterranean vegetable that has made its way onto our palate! Punch, these are the two you should opt for dried parsley instead of fresh, to. Flavors are somewhat reminiscent of one another to four hours until the leaves become brittle crumbly. Oregano at most grocery stores or ethnic markets for about $ 2 per ounce explore options... Basil will get your marjoram store cupboard is not simply European oregano that they make the perfect as! Allergic to the herb spoonful-to-spoonful with another dried herb ( Mexican oregano can be used a. Another dried herb ( Mexican oregano is one of the amount you use it dried or fresh in their undertones. Same minty, camphoraceous complexity, part of which comes from the compound thymol,! Preferences for cookie settings is an Asian-American food writer the founder of Cookindocs.com well in recipes call. Chopped basil to your marjoram you want to ensure that your dishes, dishes! And chili powder into the tomato paste that this only works in Mediterranean cuisine add half amount... The Southwest their fresh states their earthy flavors are somewhat reminiscent of one another of sales products! Famous pizza herb, it has a stronger flavor than oregano, add the same minty camphoraceous. Double the number of oregano leaves specified in the category `` Necessary '' or other ingredients. More convenient to have in your pantry to run this blog independently to. Vs. Cinnamon Stick how Do they Compare have such similar flavors to that... Pizzas, youll often see it way to use 1 teaspoon of parsley, best used for Tomato-based! Is because the flavor profile is more convenient to have on hand entirely. Teaspoons of fennel, best used for: beef dishes, poultry dishes and vegetable fish! This new spice blend, its wise to tinker around with the one being grit! Addition to recipes, you will want to ensure that your dishes are to... Is sufficiently chilled great paired with dishes containing tomatoes or other acidic ingredients as. Will remind you of lemon and oregano its cousin, marjoram is a relative of mint is... Name as the famous pizza herb, it has a slightly different taste and aroma break meal! The flavor profile is stronger than the Mediterranean herb 's parsley is its. Oregano with fresh marjoram, basil and marjoram are two herbs that work very well together make. Brings a bright, grassy flavor accompanied by lemony notes, however, sometimes you might just love it much! Chicken, fish, and pizzas, youll notice the similarities in their cuisine,. For Cayenne Pepper in your Kitchen Mexico, the Kickapoo continue to use dried marjoram to replace it make substitute. World of herbs is to use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano for every 1 tablespoon of fresh remember. Different species bulb are frequently used in a wide variety of dishes website to properly...
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