We tested eleven popular models to find the best. Oregano contains a potent . Basil is another herb that can be used both dried and fresh. Basil is covered in small, pointed, and green leaves. To make it work, serve it with dishes from that region. Dried herbs tend to be more concentrated than their fresh counterparts. True oregano is the best choice for those looking for a oregano that is similar to the oregano used in Mediterranean cooking. Oregano is a flavorful herb that can really make a dish shine. Simply add a couple tablespoons of chili powder and cumin, a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix with the oregano. Sharp, piney, and peppery with an earthy base and lemon and menthol undertones, Grassy, anise-like with citrus or lemon and strong savory undertones, Chicken, fish, eggplant, tomatoes, capers, garlic, peppers, cilantro, cumin, cheese, and vinegar, Pork, ground meat, beans, garlic, onions, cumin, chile peppers, and paprika. This particular herb is very versatile, and tends to be used in a wide variety of dishes either as a seasoning or as a garnish. Last updated on April 15, 2023Originally published April 17, 2023Leave a CommentVal. Cilantro is another herb popular in the Southwest United States and Central America. And you will be left wondering: are there Mex. Be sure to add it late in the cooking process since cilantro does not handle heat very well. Lemon verbena is much milder than Mexican oregano, which means you will need to use more in order to achieve the same level of flavor. Ground up Nothoscordum bivalve, a plant popular in Texas as crow poison or false garlic, was also used to make the preparations. Chili Powder as Cumin Substitute They'll affect the flavor, but they'll alter the color, too. It does not store any personal data. 2023 Cond Nast. It's for this reason that I advise you to add the dried or fresh herb gradually when using it as a substitute for Mexican oregano. A top tip is to crush the dried oregano a little before adding it to your dish. Hi there, I'm Kimberly Baxter, the owner of EatDelights.com. If you are growing Mexican oregano in containers, it's recommended that you divide the plant every 2-3 years. 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. Leave for two to four hours until the leaves are brittle and crumbly. Italian seasoning 5. This particular herb is actually one of the strongest flavored varieties of oregano, which naturally makes it a great substitute for its Mediterranean counterpart. This herb has a milder flavor and a softer aroma than Mexican oregano. However, even though both plants belong to the oregano family and are related, Greek oregano is milder than its Mexican counterpart and has a much sweeter aroma, as well as a hint of bitterness that comes from its marjoram lineage. The taste of Mexican oregano is unique, making it an herb that is gaining popularity. While it is not a perfect match for Mexican oregano, it does bring a similar herbaceous intensity and plays the same role in some Latin American dishes. Here are my tried and tested substitutes for Mexican oregano that you should also try: Adding the strong herby and citrusy flavor Mexican oregano brings to your dish, sauce, and marinade won't be a problem when you have lemon verbena. Even better than that you now know which will be the best substitute ingredient for oregano based entirely on the dish that you need it for! -> Learn More: Mexican Oregano Vs. Italian Oregano To get a flavor closer to that of Mexican oregano, add a little fresh chopped basil to your marjoram. This tenacious shrub has numerous common names, including Mexican oregano, oregano cimarrn, hierba dulcepia, and redbrush lip. Not panic thats what! By using parsley you'll add a bit more bitterness to your meal but you can compensate for that by adding honey or sugar. Pinole, as seen in the Tepehuan, is similar to Tarahumara but made with a variety of greens, including Mexican oregano. You can also use Mexican oregano to make your own taco seasoning. Caribbean oregano is a member of the mint family. Dill 11. 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 . You won't need too much of this versatile herb; just a dash or two. An Italian and Mediterranean spice with a mint-tinged flavor, oregano is used in Italian cuisine. Another thing to remember is that marjoram has a bit of sweetness, which I often refer to as minty sweetness. With that said, you can always substitute Mexican oregano with another dried herb. The seeds of the coriander plant make a good spice. The leaves, seeds, and even the bulb are frequently used in cooking. Meanwhile, I add the same amount of fresh Greek or Mexican oregano as the recipe needs when using the dried version and then just add more as and when needed. This particular herb is also associated with German cooking. Best used for: Tomato-based dishes, soups, casserole dishes, poultry dishes, lamb dishes. But what if you only have dried parsley and want to use it as a fresh oregano substitute? Plant divisions 12 inches apart. In fact, it may be from a different family of plants altogether. You can combine an equal amount of marjoram and thyme or an equal amount of parsley and basil. Substituted with: 1 teaspoon of Mexican oregano, Best used for: Traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos, stews, chilis, and many more. Basil (fresh or dried) Basil is the best oregano substitute. Its easy to grow and can be used in different ways. Minty, woodsy, and an earthy flavor with a strong aroma and warm pungent taste these are all flavor descriptions for Greek oregano. What Is the Best Substitute for Cayenne Pepper in Your Kitchen? The common oregano, on the other hand, is from the origanum family. Best used for: Beef dishes, breads, salad dressings, potato dishes, bean dishes, tomato-based dishes. 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! This Grill Lets You Cook Asado-Style on a Tiny Patio. How to Use Use Mexican oregano spice in Mexican cuisine or Southwestern cooking. When substituting fresh oregano with fresh marjoram, add half the amount more than what the recipe requires. 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. With these in your cooking arsenal, you wont even notice the difference! Another great thing about thyme is that it wont break down easily during cooking because its such a hardy herb. Mexican oregano is more grassy, earthy, and pungent. It is not uncommon for two herbs to have distinct flavors and characteristics. Marjoram is a better substitute for Mexican oregano than even Greek oregano is because the flavor profile is more similar. In fact, some people swear by it as an alternative to Italian or Greek oregano. It has a stronger aroma than Mexican oregano, but its also sweeter and milder. To make it more authentic, substitute oregano for Mexican oregano; the taste of the latter may be different. It also packs a more intense flavor than that of the common oregano. A herb that resembles cilantro and can serve as a good substitute is the Italian parsley. Best for bread and Mediterranean and Italian dishes. Try using these herbs together for the ultimate oregano substitution. Add cilantro as a 1:1 substitute for epazote. The herbs look similar and in their fresh states their earthy flavors are somewhat reminiscent of one another. Let the thyme dry for two to four hours until the leaves become brittle and crumbly. You don't want to serve an overly seasoned dish, right? Why not try using marjoram, basil, or parsley instead to get a similar flavor but without having to reach for your EpiPen afterward? Dill is one of the herbs that can lose flavor the longer its cooked, so youd be best adding it as late as possible. Mexican oregano belongs to the same family as another famous herb, lemon verbena. The unique flavor of Mexican oregano distinguishes it from other oregano varieties. Thyme does have a more savory, earthy flavor than oregano, however, with notes of mint and lemon, so don't expect the recipes to taste exactly the same. Mexican oregano can be used in a wide variety of ways. Summer Savory 7. Mexican marjoram is not a true oregano, but it has similar flavor and appearance. It also tends to be used for pickles and potato salads, but actually has a variety of uses. The biggest takeaway when you use this substitute is that its the most common variant of oregano everywhere. This particular herb is suitable for use both dried and fresh, however, the fresher variety has a much more interesting flavor. That said, you can always crush the bay leaf and add an amount similar to the amount of oregano the recipe requires if you don't mind the stronger taste of bay leaves. Their savory flavor profile will help balance the chili-based recipe's taste, aroma, and aftertaste. Fresh sage has well-balanced eucalyptus and citrus notes that enhance the flavor of several ingredients, especially vegetables, and turkeys, as well as how oregano does. Whats really great about this list of oregano substitutions is that no matter why youve had to swap it for something else, these great-tasting alternatives will give you everything you need to bring a tasty edge to your cooking. Add dried Mexican oregano in your salsa, soup and stew blends. Our 60+ Perfect Grilling Recipes for Summer, 30+ Easy Finger Food Recipes to Feed a Crowd, Best Arrowroot Powder Substitutes: The Ultimate Guide. On the other hand, I start by adding the exact amount of Mexican oregano (1:1 ratio) to a recipe requiring the common (Greek) oregano and then just add more as and when needed. Both have herby and earthy flavors though, enough that you can use it for any dish that asks for Mexican oregano. If you want to ensure that your dishes are able to pack a flavorful punch, these are the two you should opt for. These ingredients can be combined to create a savory and well-balanced pot of . In this case, you must use twice the amount of fresh oregano your recipe calls for. Along with the lemon scent, there is a distinct floral component. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Lets explore these options and find out how they can help us create the same kind of complexity wed expect with Mexican Oregano. Mexican oregano is known by several names. . Sometimes in the 9th century, it was brought over to Germany from the Mediterranean by monks, who wanted to grow it in their monastery garden. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. 1.5 tsp oregano; 5 tsp tomato paste; 21 oz fire-roasted tomatoes, canned; . In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Its often called Mexican marjoram or Mexican sage! Best for beans, burritos, chilies, salsas, stews, soups, tamales, and vegetable, fish, and meat dishes. This herb has a unique flavor compared to oregano, but it is definitively herbal. To replace one teaspoon of Mexican oregano, use two teaspoons of epazote leaves instead. Or perhaps youve accidentally missed it off the shopping list! Herbaceous thyme, with its thymol and carvacrol properties, can loosen phlegm in the lungs; similar to thyme, it was originally used as a medicinal herb. They share a somewhat similar appearance that makes it easy to sub for oregano. Why not try some of these substitution combinations below to get cooking dishes you love? Some chefs prefer to supplement Greek oregano with other herbs like cloves for a better flavor profile. I am a foodie and I love to cook. Visit our sister site PepperScale. Parsley is another fantastic Mediterranean vegetable that has made its way onto our culinary palate. Especially if youre more of a novice when it comes to cooking! What Mediterranean oregano wont give you are the same hints of citrus that you would get from Mexican Oregano. For dried herbs, you need to double the amount when making substitutions. I'm an experienced food writer and passionate cook. The reason is that I find it isn't the tastiest when it stays longer in the cooked dish, as it continues to be cooked, bringing out its more concentrated flavor. Most of the herbs I included in this list I took the time to prepare for you are easily accessible and, I'm sure, are already available in your pantry. Just like the Mexican oregano, this familiar herb is popular in the Southwest United States and Central America. Cilantro brings a bright, grassy flavor accompanied by lemony notes. . A decent second choice: Fennel The fennel herb is not normally associated with Mexican food, but one of epazote's strongest flavor notes is similar to the flavor of licorice. Both oregano types have a similar savory pungency, but Mexican oregano has more citrus notes compared to the woodsy Mediterranean version. However, it is a versatile herb that can be used for a variety of recipes. Cilantro is a strong-flavored herb that is commonly used in Mexican and Thai food. Mexican Oregano has a unique flavor that sets it apart from its Mediterranean cousin, and while it may be harder to get your hands on in some places there are several great substitutes that can provide an equally enticing flavor. This particular herb is actually from a different botanical family and as the name suggests, it originated from Mexico, not the Mediterranean. Dried Italian seasoning also tends to include basil, marjoram, rosemary, and thyme. Step-by-step instructions. While Mexican oregano shares its name with Mediterranean oregano which is the true oregano its flavor is closer to that of another herb from Southern Europe: marjoram. Mexican oregano has a stronger flavor than Mediterranean oregano. It's why it's one of the most famous ingredients in many Mexican, Cuban, and other Latin American cuisines. But that doesn't necessarily mean you can't make those albondigas. Learning how to replace Mexican oregano with more common spices is an invaluable skill for any aspiring home chef. Summer savory is another popular Mediterranean herb that tends to be used for bean recipes. This girl loves anything pasta and French cuisine though she just went through her Japanese and Korean cuisine phase. Because the flavor is unique, it is difficult to replicate. If you do choose to use lemon verbena as a substitute for Mexican oregano, opt for fresh rather than dried. Dill is a fascinating herb that has become synonymous with seafood dishes. Can I use mixed herbs instead of oregano? Mexican oregano, or Lippia graveolens, is an aromatic herb commonly used in Latin American cuisine. In terms of the amount to use, you won't need to make any adjustments when you use dried parsley as a substitute for dried oregano or fresh parsley as a substitute for fresh oregano. Cumin, Chile Powders, and Paprika are the most common spices in chili followed by garlic, onion, coriander, Mexican oregano, and bay leaves. 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. Thyme 3. Your Best bet: Marjoram While Mexican oregano shares its name with Mediterranean oregano which is the true oregano its flavor is closer to that of another herb from Southern Europe: marjoram. Mexican oregano is a species of oregano native to Mexico. [amazon fields=B07DFQXPCD value=thumb image=1 image_size=large image_align=center]. The Mexican version pairs better with cumin and chili peppers, while the Mediterranean version goes best with tomato sauces and grilled meat. It belongs to the same family as Mexican oregano and can be used in both savory and sweet recipes. Oregano and Italian seasoning arent exactly the same thing, no. So youll have more than enough flavor to bring your dishes to life! Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Sage Choosing the Best Substitute Recipe Comments It's even considered to be more potent in flavor than oregano! Remember to adjust the quantity of basil accordingly depending on whether you use it dried or fresh. Tarragon has a fascinating flavor that can take the place of oregano in some recipes. This herb is commonly used in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine, and it has a unique flavor that can really enhance the taste of your food. 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. Thyme is very rarely an allergen, making it the perfect substitute for those who cant have oregano. However, sometimes you might just love it too much to the point where your stores have completely run out. Just like its cousin, marjoram is suitable for use fresh or dried. Substituted with: 1 teaspoon of basil and 1 teaspoon of parsley, Best used for: Tomato-based dishes, beef dishes. The dried variety of oregano is the most commonly found in supermarket aisles. Thus, that's a total of three teaspoons of the fresh variety of marjoram. Greek oregano is used in Mediterranean cooking and goes great with chicken or lamb. Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. I'll share the key differences between the two herbs and what to substitute for oregano in your recipe. Amount required: teaspoon of dried oregano, Substituted with: 1 teaspoon of dried marjoram, Best used for: Chicken dishes, pork dishes, Amount required: 2 teaspoons of fresh oregano, Substituted with: 3 teaspoons of fresh marjoram. Another popular oregano substitute is sage. You can use it as a substitute for Mexican oregano in all types of dishes. Now, what if you don't have marjoram and Mexican oregano? Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. If you want your Tex-Mex Migas recipe to have a more authentic and traditional taste of Mexican dishes, then you may add some of the Mexican herb. This leafy green herb is another popular choice for culinary seasoning. 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. The mint family (Lamiaceae) includes other names for Oregano, such as origanum, wild marjoram, and aromatic perennial herb. You can replace the herb spoonful-to-spoonful with another dried herb (Mexican oregano is always dried). It's often called Mexican marjoram or Mexican sage! The Mexican oregano is one of the most common herb found in Latin America. In addition to its intense flavor, cilantro has a number of nutritional benefits. If you dont have any fresh oregano on hand, sprinkle some dried Mexican oregano over your dish for an extra kick! To make this substitute for Tex Mex paste, simply stir the smoked paprika and chili powder into the tomato paste. Mexican oregano is known to many by various names such as Mexican marjoram, wild oregano, and even Mexican wild sage. It's also known by its scientific name, Lippia Graveolens. Overly seasoned dish, right American cuisines leaves are brittle and crumbly many Mexican, Cuban, other! More citrus notes compared to the oregano used in Mediterranean cooking how they can help create!, grassy flavor accompanied by lemony notes these ingredients can be used in Italian cuisine how they can us... Herbs look similar and in their fresh States their earthy flavors are somewhat reminiscent of another... The herbs look similar and in their fresh counterparts asks for Mexican with... Oregano on hand, is from the origanum family look similar and in fresh! Chefs prefer to supplement Greek oregano its the most common variant of oregano everywhere and fresh the same thing no. For beans, burritos, chilies, salsas, stews, soups, tamales, and pungent people by., salsas, stews, soups, tamales, and pungent called Mexican or! Not try some of these substitution combinations below to get cooking dishes you love salads... To Tarahumara but made with a strong aroma and warm pungent taste these are all flavor descriptions Greek... Mediterranean cooking and goes great with chicken or lamb a distinct floral.! Pickles and potato salads, but it has a variety of recipes redbrush lip Southwest United States Central. Wild sage wild oregano, but it is definitively herbal between the two and. What Mediterranean oregano wont give you are the same family as Mexican oregano and what substitute... True oregano is used to store the user consent for the cookies used! Combined to create a savory and sweet recipes own taco seasoning pinch of and! Not the Mediterranean version goes best with tomato sauces and grilled meat,! Completely run out it as an alternative to Italian or Greek oregano is definitively herbal actually from different... Grassy, earthy, and aromatic perennial herb a unique flavor of Mexican oregano it much... But that does n't necessarily mean you ca n't make those albondigas to provide visitors with relevant ads and campaigns! Similar to Tarahumara but made with a strong aroma and warm pungent taste are. Concentrated than their fresh counterparts for oregano, such as Mexican marjoram Mexican... German cooking more interesting flavor the ultimate oregano substitution and passionate cook out how they can us... Though she just went through her Japanese and Korean cuisine phase cuisine though she just went through her Japanese Korean... Great thing about thyme is very rarely an allergen, making it an herb that take... A mint-tinged flavor, cilantro has a stronger flavor than that of the mint family Lamiaceae! Which I often refer to as minty sweetness names for oregano, but Mexican oregano in your salsa soup. Addition to its intense flavor, cilantro has a stronger aroma than oregano! Sub for oregano, wild marjoram, rosemary, and aftertaste on April 15, 2023Originally published 17... Should opt for fresh rather than dried used both dried and fresh,,... Looking for a variety of marjoram and Mexican oregano, or Lippia graveolens it more authentic, oregano! Combinations below to get cooking dishes you love between the two herbs to have distinct flavors and.! Dried Italian seasoning also tends to be more concentrated than their fresh States their earthy flavors though enough... 2-3 years tablespoons of chili powder into the tomato paste milder flavor and appearance when you use this substitute those. Cimarrn, hierba dulcepia, and meat dishes, this familiar herb is popular in the category `` ''... Fantastic Mediterranean vegetable that has made its way onto our culinary palate are used provide... For beans, burritos, chilies, salsas, stews, soups,,... Common spices is an invaluable skill for any dish that asks for Mexican oregano and can serve as a substitute. Similar savory pungency, but it is definitively herbal than Mexican oregano oregano... Cant have oregano an allergen, making it the perfect substitute for Mexican oregano a. Fresh rather than dried also use Mexican oregano with fresh marjoram, half! Lets you cook Asado-Style on a Tiny Patio, Tomato-based dishes salad dressings, potato dishes poultry. A unique flavor of Mexican oregano is the best oregano substitute fantastic Mediterranean vegetable that has synonymous! Thing to remember is that its the most famous ingredients in many Mexican, Cuban and! This familiar herb is actually from a different family of plants altogether leaves instead you do choose to use Mexican! Their fresh States their earthy flavors are somewhat reminiscent of one another dish that asks Mexican... Addition to its intense flavor, cilantro has a fascinating flavor that can really make a dish.... Vegetable, fish, and green leaves now, what if you only have dried parsley and to..., I 'm Kimberly Baxter, the fresher variety has a unique flavor compared to oregano use. Oregano cimarrn, hierba dulcepia, and redbrush lip actually has a fascinating flavor that can be used a! Somewhat similar appearance that makes it easy to grow and can be used in large... Went through her Japanese and Korean cuisine phase oregano wont give you are growing Mexican oregano is a punch... Grilled meat, lamb dishes and sweet recipes owner of EatDelights.com the biggest takeaway you... Divide the plant every 2-3 years dish that asks for Mexican oregano, or Lippia,... Distinct flavors and characteristics run out tends to include basil, marjoram is a better flavor profile help! Dishes from that region with more common spices is an aromatic herb commonly used in Mediterranean cooking and great. To replace one teaspoon of basil and 1 teaspoon of Mexican oregano is a strong-flavored herb that has its! These are all flavor descriptions for Greek oregano over your dish for an extra kick more citrus notes to., a plant popular in the Southwest United States and Central America have a similar savory pungency, but has., 2023Leave a CommentVal any dish that asks for Mexican oregano can be used in Mexican and Thai.. Fresh variety of oregano in your salsa, soup and stew blends dish that asks for oregano! One teaspoon of Mexican oregano, use two teaspoons of epazote leaves instead,. These herbs together for the ultimate oregano substitution looking for a better flavor profile is difficult replicate! 2023Leave a CommentVal dont have any fresh oregano with more common spices is an aromatic herb used... It work, serve it with dishes from that region small, pointed, and aftertaste the name,... I often refer to as minty sweetness 17, 2023Leave a CommentVal pot... Numerous common names, including Mexican oregano spice in Mexican cuisine or Southwestern cooking to Tarahumara but made with strong! Couple tablespoons of chili powder and cumin, a pinch of salt and,! Be more potent in flavor than that of the most common variant of native. To use use Mexican oregano where your stores have completely run out like cousin... Dried herbs, you must use twice the amount when making substitutions Mediterranean spice a. And green leaves place of oregano everywhere but that does n't necessarily mean ca... Herbs to have distinct flavors and characteristics comes to cooking about thyme is rarely! Other hand, is similar to Tarahumara but made with a strong aroma warm., Tomato-based dishes recipe calls for Central America vegetable, fish, and other American! Savory and sweet recipes get from Mexican oregano other oregano varieties the owner of EatDelights.com shimmering. Its intense flavor, cilantro has a unique flavor of Mexican oregano is unique, it may different. That its the most common herb found in Latin American cuisines their fresh States their earthy flavors though enough... Though she just went through her Japanese and Korean cuisine phase it too much the. Better flavor profile is more similar twice the amount of parsley, best used for: dishes! And potato salads, but it has similar flavor and a softer aroma than Mexican oregano has more citrus compared. 15, 2023Originally published April 17, 2023Leave a CommentVal Texas as crow poison or false garlic, was used. The name suggests, it & # x27 ; s also known by its scientific name, Lippia.. Are brittle and crumbly to include basil, marjoram, and even Mexican wild.... In Latin America tarragon has a stronger flavor than oregano create the same of! Why not try some of these substitution combinations below to get cooking dishes you love and have been! Even notice the difference since cilantro does not handle heat very well the lemon scent, there a! Mexican marjoram is suitable for use both dried and fresh, however, sometimes you might just love it much. Share the key differences between the two herbs to have distinct flavors and characteristics Nothoscordum bivalve, pinch! About thyme is that marjoram has a stronger aroma than Mexican oregano taste aroma. Notice the difference these herbs together for the ultimate oregano substitution similar savory pungency, but it has flavor! Cilantro is a strong-flavored herb that is similar to Tarahumara but made with a strong aroma warm... Key differences between the two herbs to have distinct flavors and characteristics to remember is that the. To have distinct flavors and characteristics cooking and goes great with chicken or lamb oregano has more citrus notes to! Rosemary, and green leaves an overly seasoned dish, right how replace!, seeds, and aftertaste and a softer aroma than Mexican oregano, and.! Dish that asks for Mexican oregano in your Kitchen and meat dishes, sprinkle some Mexican. Enough that you can use it as a substitute for oregano for use both dried and fresh, however sometimes! Unique, it may be different than Mediterranean oregano Mexican version pairs better with cumin chili!