Fresh oregano is a versatile herb that can elevate many dishes with its pungent, slightly peppery flavor. Here's how to best use it:
Preparation and Storage
- Washing: Gently wash fresh oregano under cool water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Storage: Store fresh oregano in the refrigerator. You can wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a plastic bag, or stand the stems in a glass of water (like you would cut flowers) and cover loosely with a plastic bag.
- Removing leaves: Strip the leaves from the stems before use. The stems can be woody and tough.
Culinary Uses
Fresh oregano can be used in various ways to add flavor to your cooking:
- Greek and Mediterranean Dishes: Oregano is a staple in Greek and Mediterranean cuisine. Sprinkle it generously over Greek salads, especially those with feta cheese, black olives, and tomatoes. It pairs excellently with lamb, chicken, and fish.
- Sauces: Add fresh oregano to tomato sauces, pesto, and other savory sauces for a vibrant, herby flavor. Add it towards the end of cooking to retain its fresh aroma.
- Marinades: Incorporate chopped fresh oregano into marinades for meats, poultry, and vegetables. It infuses a delightful herbaceous note.
- Dressings: Whisk finely chopped fresh oregano into vinaigrettes and salad dressings.
- Pizza and Pasta: Sprinkle fresh oregano over pizzas and pasta dishes for an authentic Italian flavor.
- Eggs and Vegetables: Add a sprinkle of fresh oregano to omelets, frittatas, or roasted vegetables. It complements tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplant particularly well.
- Infused Oils and Vinegars: Infuse olive oil or vinegar with fresh oregano to create flavorful condiments.
Tips for Usage
- Start Small: Fresh oregano has a strong flavor, so start with a small amount and add more to taste. It can easily overpower other flavors if used excessively.
- Timing: Add fresh oregano towards the end of cooking to preserve its flavor and aroma. Prolonged heat can diminish its intensity.
- Complementary Flavors: Oregano pairs well with garlic, lemon, olive oil, tomatoes, feta cheese, and other Mediterranean ingredients.
- Consider Dried Oregano: While fresh oregano offers a brighter flavor, dried oregano is more concentrated. If substituting dried oregano for fresh, use about one-third the amount. For example, if a recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano, use 1 teaspoon of dried oregano.
By following these tips, you can unlock the full potential of fresh oregano and elevate your culinary creations.
