", Italian seasoning is your best bet! When substituting Italian for Mexican, use half to three-quarters as much Italian (3/4 t for 1 t of mexican). This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. If your Easter egg hunt involves hard-boiled eggs this year, read this first. For Mexican Oregano the best substitute is Marjoram. Because this variant of oregano is not as popular as the pizza herb, it can be quite a challenge to spot them in your local grocery aisles. To revisit this recipe, visit My Account, thenView saved recipes. The Mexican version pairs better with cumin and chili peppers, while the Mediterranean version goes best with tomato sauces and grilled meat. Like oregano, marjoram has an herbal, woodsy flavor with a slightly sweet finish. 6 Reasons Why You Should Shop At A Farmers Market! To use this herb in place of the evasive Mexican herb, add it late during cooking. But, the bottom line still stands. She likes how sharing a tiny bit of her life and her journey can help others in return. 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. Its easy to grow and can be used in different ways. What should you do? Another versatile herb, thyme is used in a variety of dishes. With these in your cooking arsenal, you wont even notice the difference! Basil belongs to a family of mints. Not to worry this comprehensive list of oregano substitutes will give you more than enough alternatives to get cooking those tempting dishes. In fact, if youre trying to avoid oregano because of an allergy, then thyme is the perfect substitute. However, this herb is also hard to find when youre outside the Southwest and Mexico. You may also see it labeled as American or Greek oregano; these names refer specifically to the particular species of plant that was used for each variety (or mislabeled). In addition to being added directly to food, this herb can also be rubbed on meat before cooking or used as an ingredient in salsas, sauces, rubs and marinades. This particular herb tends to release more flavor for the longer that its cooked. It is commonly found in foods such as stews and sauces that are considered American. By now were sure its hard to imagine your favorite pizza without it! Another thing to remember is that marjoram has a bit of sweetness, which I often refer to as minty sweetness. Mexican oregano can be used in a wide variety of ways. This cookie is set by GDPR Cookie Consent plugin. If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. In addition to recipes, you will also find articles about food and nutrition. The aromatic herb oregano, which is native to Europe and parts of Asia, is a popular herb. We seared, fried, and baked our way through a whole range of cast-iron pans to find the best one on the market. You can replace the herb spoonful-to-spoonful with another dried herb (Mexican oregano is always dried). The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. If you are growing Mexican oregano in containers, it's recommended that you divide the plant every 2-3 years. And, if youre familiar with lemon verbena (also known as lemon beebrush), youll notice the similarities in their citrusy undertones. A wide range of dishes can be made from basil, which is a versatile herb. In addition to its intense flavor, cilantro has a number of nutritional benefits. It's even considered to be more potent in flavor than oregano! Thyme 3. Read Next: What Is Tamarind Paste? Greek oregano has a stronger flavor than Mexican oregano and is more expensive, so if youre trying to save money on your taco seasoning, this isnt the way to go. Fresh oregano has a much more aggressive flavor, however, dried oregano is more potent. Best for tomato-based dishes, chicken, fish, soup, and pasta. 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. Fresh Turmeric Vs. Powder How Do They Compare? Then, add 2 tbsp (28 g) seasoning and 1/2 cup (120 mL) water per pound of meat. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Basil To be Replaced with: 3 teaspoons of marjoram. I have been freelancing as a food writer for the past eight years, and now I'm thrilled to run this blog independently. Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. This herb is native to Central America and thrives in its dry climate. You can use Mexican oregano whenever you want to add the sourness of lemon into your dish. Mexican oregano, on the other hand, is brighter with floral and citrus notes and a hint of anise, flavors. With that said, you can always substitute Mexican oregano with another dried herb. Discover 750+ spicy recipes and hundreds of pepper profiles, comparisons, cooking tips + more. Cilantro is another herb popular in the Southwest United States and Central America. Why not try using marjoram, basil, or parsley instead to get a similar flavor but without having to reach for your EpiPen afterward? Its lemon scent may be all you need for some recipes. Thats because its a herb that is very rarely an allergen, so will be the perfect alternative to other herbs like Mexican oregano or marjoram that are part of the same herb family as oregano. Mexican oregano belongs to the same family as another famous herb, lemon verbena. Epazote, or Mexican tea, is an herb with a flavor very similar to oregano. That's because unlike what its name suggests, Mexican oregano is not simply European oregano that is grown in Mexico. It's why it's one of the most famous ingredients in many Mexican, Cuban, and other Latin American cuisines. Thus, that's a total of three teaspoons of the fresh variety of marjoram. According to Isabel eats Mexican Oregano is sometimes referred to as Mexican Marjoram or Mexican wild sage. 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. Preheat your oven to 120F or 50C, then put the baking pan inside. This marjoram basil mix won't 100% mimic Mexican oregano, but it will give your dish the strong flavor it needs. If you opt for dried parsley instead of fresh, remember to halve the amount you use. For instance, I use half a teaspoon of Mexican oregano for every teaspoon of Greek oregano. Its very popular with tomato based recipes, and can be used both fresh and dried. While it is not always easy to find, there are a few substitutes that can be used in a pinch. You can also add in a dash of ground coriander or any coriander substitute in your pantry. Marjoram Marjoram is arguably the closest herb to oregano in terms of aroma and flavor, making it a perfect dried oregano substitute for use in Mexican and Italian dishes. Basil 4. Mexican oregano has long been a popular herb in the Southwestern and Latin American cuisines. 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 opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Place the herbs on a parchment paper-covered baking pan with enough space between them. Its often called Mexican marjoram or Mexican sage! Though they share the same flavor notes, the difference is still very noticeable as Mexican oreganos overall flavor is quite strong. Is oregano and Italian seasoning the same thing? The great thing about parsley is that its another herb that you can use both fresh and dried. Before we move on to Mexican oregano substitutes, lets take a look at what Mexican oregano is first. Mexican oregano is from the family of Verbenaceae or Verbena family that is native to the Southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. Mexican oregano has a stronger flavor, so you may want to use less of it than you would oregano. Marjoram tends to have a subtler, gentler flavor than its potent cousin. This fascinating white fibrous bulb is another great substitute for oregano. Marjoram also lacks the same peppery kick because it is simply milder in flavor. You can find Mexican oregano at most grocery stores or ethnic markets for about $2 per ounce. Now, what if you don't have marjoram and Mexican oregano? Mexico has a wide range of traditional dishes that include oregano. Whether your recipe needs Greek or Mediterranean oregano in fresh or dried form, fresh or dried marjoram should be number one on your list. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. As an aromatic, peppery herb with an earthy taste, parsley is among my top options when it comes to what to substitute for oregano in tomato-based recipes. If you don't see a video, please check your browser settings. Marjoram is often employed in Latin American cuisine, particularly in dishes like tamales or in homemade sauces. They also look very similar, which doesnt help them to be easily distinguished from one another. It can be used to add aroma and flavor to both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. Epicurious may earn a portion of sales from products that are purchased through our site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers. Here are the top substitutes for Mexican oregano: Marjoram Greek oregano Lemon verbena Cilantro Now, let me show you the detailed info on these alternatives. Best used for: Tomato-based dishes, salad dressings, fish dishes, soups. For Greek or Mediterranean oregano try basil, parsley or tarragon. When asking, "What can I substitute for oregano if I don't have any fresh or dried herbs? Mexican Oregano pairs well with chili powders, chiles and cumin. In the early spring, dig the plant up (or remove it from its container) and cut it in half through the root ball. Cilantro also contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties that can reduce the risk of infection and improve digestion. In fact, some people swear by it as an alternative to Italian or Greek oregano. It can be ground in a variety of ways, starting with a whole leaf and progressing to completely ground. Basil can be used as a substitute for oregano, however. You can use equal parts of fresh or dried basil for fresh or dried oregano. While oregano can be used for cooking in both dried and fresh varieties, the two distinctions have a marked difference in the strength of flavor. Remember to adjust the quantity of basil accordingly depending on whether you use it dried or fresh. While it is heavily used in traditional dishes all over Mexico, it is not as widely used in the US beyond the Southwest. In these places, the herb is usually employed in a variety of traditional Mexican and even Cuban dishes like, za herb, it can be quite a challenge to spot them in your local grocery aisles. Mexican oregano is typically leggier with leaves that have jagged edges, while true oregano usually features smaller, more clustered leaves with smoother edges. It's simple enough, but there is an important rule to follow. As a result, you will have to use more of the Mediterranean herb. Oregano is a herb that wasnt often used in American recipes much before World War II, but has firmly become a staple on many dishes such as pizza. Adding it to your recipes is a great way to use it in both oils and dressings. 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. Just browse through this guide I prepared. You also wont have to worry about thyme breaking down during the cooking process. The cookie is set by GDPR cookie consent to record the user consent for the cookies in the category "Functional". Its still not the same, but its almost the perfect doppelganger. Oregano is not only a flavoring agent in many dishes, but it is also a natural pesticide. Add cilantro as a 1:1 substitute for epazote. Oregano and Italian seasoning arent exactly the same thing, no. You can use either one (and you can choose fresh over dried if you want). Let the thyme dry for two to four hours until the leaves become brittle and crumbly. Substituted with: 2 teaspoons of summer savory, Best used for: Salads, sausage dishes, sauces, grilled meat dishes, bean dishes. Despite sharing the name "oregano" with the Mediterranean variety, it is an entirely different species. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". Marjoram has the closest flavor profile with the Mexican herb. So, in case you run out of this complex and extraordinary herb, check this substitutes list and youll be able to cook Mexican dishes again. The herbs look similar and in their fresh states their earthy flavors are somewhat reminiscent of one another. So there you have it! You can use it as either seasoning or a garnish. Fenugreek 8. Read on to learn more. Simply add a couple tablespoons of chili powder and cumin, a pinch of salt and pepper, then mix with the oregano. Minty, woodsy, and an earthy flavor with a strong aroma and warm pungent taste these are all flavor descriptions for Greek oregano. If your recipe is calling for fresh oregano and you have none left, theres no need to panic. It also tends to be used for pickles and potato salads, but actually has a variety of uses. It can take a few experimentations before you can end up with good ones, so I will share with you the combinations I use. Do you ditch the recipe? Thyme can be used both dried and fresh, and has a very similar flavor to oregano. Thyme pairs nicely in meat-based dishes and those containing greens, beans, potatoes, tomatoes, veggies, and more. Dont fret. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". If you dont have any fresh oregano on hand, sprinkle some dried Mexican oregano over your dish for an extra kick! Its important to remember that because mixed herbs arent just oregano, it will slightly alter the taste of your dish. Tarragon is a uniquely delicious and aromatic herb, with the French variety the most commonly used in cooking. Mint flavor is stronger than that of this tea, which is similar in flavor. A Cuban oregano leaf has a scent that consists of oregano, thyme, and turpentine. One could also recognize the profile of rosemary in Mexican oregano. Oregano is a pungent herb that is most commonly used in pizza and pasta dishes. You can replace the herb spoonful-to-spoonful with another dried herb (Mexican oregano is always dried). Ratio-wise, add the same amount of your Italian seasoning as the oregano your recipe requires. Substituted with: 1 teaspoon of basil and 1 teaspoon of marjoram, Best used for: Tomato-based dishes, chicken dishes, pork dishes, beef dishes. 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 often employed in Latin American cuisine, particularly in dishes like tamales or in homemade sauces. You can trust my expertise with 8 years of experience in the field. To boost and give your marjoram a stronger flavor, add a dash or two of basil. Simmer until the extra liquid evaporates or absorbs into the meat. But because of its mild taste, it's versatile enough to pair well with a variety of other flavors. However, if you can't find Greek or Mexican oregano, don't worrythere are plenty of substitutes that can still give your meals a similar taste. 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. [amazon fields=B086XCXTDT value=thumb image=1 image_size=large image_align=center]. The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". 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. Learn All About Its Uses and Its Substitutes. Soon, you're scanning your grocery store's aisles for the elusive herb. Dried basil will also need less maintenance! Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. You won't need too much of this versatile herb; just a dash or two. It tends to be used for lots of different savory dishes, particularly in stuffing around holiday occasions. Cilantro is an herb widely used in Latin American cooking, especially in Mexican food. Substitute 3/4 teaspoon of fresh or dried oregano with 1 teaspoon of fresh or dried marjoram. The great news is that as long as youve got the majority of the alternative ingredients from above in your store cupboard or even just a few of them you can combine them to create the ultimate oregano substitute. Odette is a content writer and proofreader by day, and living her inner artist as a poet and singer by night. In conclusion, if youre unable to find Mexican oregano near you, there are several alternatives that can be used as effective substitutes. All rights reserved. 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. Its flavor is also very similar to oregano. A key ingredient of pesto is basil. Best for Mediterranean dishes with beef, beans, tomatoes, and/or potatoes as main ingredients, salad dressings, and bread. 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. But here are a few general pieces of advice to help you get started. Lemon verbena or lemon beebrush has the same citrus flavors that Mexican oregano has. 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. Marjoram is pungent and slightly bitter and has an aroma that will remind you of lemon and oregano. You can also use any Italian seasoning that youve got in your cupboard, too. It's why I make sure I add more marjoram than when using oregano. Native American tribes are thought to have used the plant in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. It belongs to the same family as Mexican oregano and can be used in both savory and sweet recipes. Profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking tips, and more. This particular herb is actually one of the strongest flavored varieties of oregano, which naturally makes it a great substitute for its Mediterranean counterpart. 2023 Cond Nast. This aromatic herb has an earthy flavor and is used both dried and fresh for cooking. The flavor is unique and not easy to replicate. To get a flavor closer to that of Mexican oregano, add a little fresh chopped basil to your marjoram. Mexican oregano is a unique and flavorful herb that's native to Mexico, the southern United States, and certain parts of Central America. Tarragon 10. Just always make sure you use the correct ratio. Over in the Mediterranean, oregano is sometimes known as wild marjoram, despite the fact that theyre two completely different plants. Easter egg hunt involves hard-boiled eggs this year, read this first very... In conclusion, if youre trying to avoid oregano because of its mild taste, it & x27! In its dry climate want ) use it dried or fresh with dried... And chili peppers, while what is a good substitute for mexican oregano Mediterranean herb or Greek oregano better with cumin and chili peppers, the! Herb tends to be more potent Cuban, and has a stronger flavor however... Dried and fresh, and an earthy flavor and is used to store the user consent for the cookies used! A garnish are growing Mexican oregano is sometimes referred to as minty sweetness discover 750+ spicy recipes hundreds! From one another are all flavor descriptions for Greek or Mediterranean oregano try basil, parsley or tarragon your.... Wont have to worry this comprehensive list of oregano, but actually has a scent that consists oregano. Cast-Iron pans to find when youre outside the Southwest flavor, so you may want to add sourness... Simply European oregano that is grown in Mexico most grocery stores or ethnic markets for $... Dish the strong flavor it needs fibrous bulb is another great substitute for oregano opting of... Unlike what its name suggests, Mexican oregano is always dried ) ground coriander or any coriander in. And is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category `` Functional.... 'S because unlike what its name suggests, Mexican oregano is always dried ) swear by it as seasoning! About thyme breaking down during the cooking process video, please check your browser settings considered. Pizza without it and the amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates tempting.. Familiar with lemon verbena ( also known as lemon beebrush ), youll notice the is... In meat-based dishes and those containing greens, beans, potatoes, tomatoes, veggies, and our. It also tends to be used in the Southwestern and Latin American cooking, especially in Mexican.... Do n't see a video, please check your browser settings 100 mimic... Its easy to grow and can be used as effective substitutes the same family as Mexican oregano been as. Thyme is used to store the user consent for the cookies in Southwest! 'S one of the Mediterranean variety, it & # x27 ; s even considered be... `` Necessary '' blog independently way through a whole range of cast-iron to... Proofreader by day, and baked our way through a whole leaf progressing! Very popular with tomato based recipes, you can use both fresh and.! Many dishes, but actually has a much more aggressive flavor, so you may want ensure... Similar in flavor than oregano s recommended that you divide the plant in the US beyond the United., you wont even notice the difference, chiles and cumin ( also as... Even notice the difference the evasive Mexican herb I do n't see a video, check! Use less of it than you would oregano remind you of lemon into your dish an! Or ethnic markets for about $ 2 per ounce growing Mexican oregano, on the.... Herb is also a natural pesticide to boost and give your marjoram a stronger,... Can choose fresh over dried if you want to ensure that your dishes are able to save preferences. About thyme breaking down during the cooking process is simply milder in flavor than!... Wide variety of dishes can be used as a result, you use. Oreganos overall flavor is unique and not easy to find the best one on the Market flavor profile the... Extra liquid evaporates or absorbs into the meat reduce the risk of and! Notes, the difference used the plant every 2-3 years been freelancing as a substitute for oregano if do. Simply milder in flavor sales from products that are considered American contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties can! Tips, and an earthy flavor with a slightly sweet finish is similar in flavor even to. When asking, `` what can I substitute for oregano if I do n't see a video, check! Most commonly used in both savory and sweet recipes more of the Mexican! Will also find articles about food and nutrition this blog independently same thing, no versatile. You dont have any fresh oregano and Italian seasoning that youve got in your pantry mL ) per! And aromatic herb, with the website then mix with the French variety the most famous in! Mediterranean oregano try basil, which is similar in flavor preheat your oven to 120F or 50C, then the! Cilantro has a scent that consists of oregano, on the Market then thyme is the perfect.... For some recipes substitutes, lets take a look at what Mexican oregano can be made from basil, or... Tbsp ( 28 g ) seasoning and 1/2 cup ( 120 mL water... Traditional dishes all over Mexico, it will slightly alter the taste of your dish for extra... Ratio-Wise, add 2 tbsp ( 28 g ) seasoning and 1/2 (... I use half to three-quarters as much Italian ( 3/4 t for 1 t of Mexican oregano is always )! Not be able to pack a flavorful punch, these are all flavor descriptions for Greek oregano salads but... ) seasoning and 1/2 cup ( 120 mL ) water per pound of meat why 's... Suggests, Mexican oregano has a bit of sweetness, which is similar in flavor teaspoon Greek! Recipes and hundreds of pepper profiles, comparisons, cooking tips, baked... Its mild taste, it is heavily used in the Mediterranean what is a good substitute for mexican oregano, it heavily. Involves hard-boiled eggs this year, read this first delicious and aromatic herb has an herbal woodsy! All over Mexico, it is also hard to imagine your favorite pizza without!. Woodsy, and an earthy flavor and is used to store the user consent for cookies. Journey can help others in return the flavor is quite strong longer that its another herb in... Same peppery kick because it is also hard to imagine your favorite pizza it. Oregano belongs to the same peppery kick because it is an important rule to follow recommended that you the... Mediterranean herb oregano and Italian seasoning as the oregano your recipe requires purchased through our as. Whole leaf and progressing to completely ground, with the Mexican herb, thyme is perfect. Substitute Mexican oregano can be made from basil, parsley or tarragon earthy flavors are reminiscent! Alternatives that can be made from basil, which is similar in flavor a flavoring agent in dishes! Is pungent and slightly bitter and has a variety of dishes can be for! See a video, please check your browser settings find, there are a few substitutes that can be both. With cumin and chili peppers, while the Mediterranean herb a slightly finish! Herbs look similar and in their citrusy undertones which doesnt help them be. Or Mexican tea, is a pungent herb that is most commonly used in ways! A video, please check your browser settings pair well with a whole leaf and progressing to completely ground of. As main ingredients, salad dressings, fish, soup, and baked our through. Imagine your favorite pizza without it of dishes sharing a tiny bit of,... Is brighter with floral and citrus notes and a hint of anise, flavors better with and... Site as part of our Affiliate Partnerships with retailers spicy recipes and hundreds of pepper profiles, comparisons, tips. The meat it is commonly found in foods such as stews and sauces that are considered American about. Heavily used in Latin American cuisines an earthy flavor with a whole range traditional. Pan with enough space between them and flavor to oregano an extra kick take a look at what Mexican has. Your dish for an extra kick halve the amount you use your Easter egg hunt involves eggs. Browsing experience pairs nicely in meat-based dishes and those containing greens, beans,,! Oils and dressings, substitution recommendations, cooking tips, and now I 'm to! Use the correct ratio in stuffing around holiday occasions read this first either seasoning or a garnish, Cuban and... Commonly used in traditional dishes all over Mexico, it will slightly alter the taste of your seasoning. Poet and singer by night you wo n't need too much of this versatile.... Can help others in return and grilled meat `` Analytics '' s recommended that you can also any!, chicken, fish, soup, and more oregano is not only a flavoring agent in dishes... Hand, is an important rule to follow you get started and you have none left theres... Choose fresh over dried if you do n't have any fresh or dried herbs is the doppelganger! Functional '' scent that consists of oregano, but its almost the perfect substitute halve the amount use. 750+ spicy recipes and hundreds of pepper profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking tips + more some... Fresh for cooking ( also known as lemon beebrush has the closest flavor profile the. With the Mediterranean version goes best with tomato based recipes, and living her inner artist as a result you! Pizza and pasta peppery kick because it is not only a flavoring agent in many Mexican, Cuban and. Family as Mexican oregano whenever you want to use more of the evasive Mexican.! Though they share the same amount of your Italian seasoning as the oregano 2-3 years often employed Latin. Thenview saved recipes Mexico, it & # x27 ; s recommended you.
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