Great Pizza Herb from Across the Pond
Updated: Dec 3, 2021
Earthy and peppery
Source: jmheatherly.medium.com
Image by Hans Linde from Pixabay
American veterans brought oregano, or “the Pizza Herb,” from Europe after returning post-WW2. From the Mediterranean region, this mint family member is sometimes called “Wild Marjoram.” Pesto recipe below.
Italian, French, Spanish and Turkish cuisines include oregano. Today, animal husbandry systems incorporate oregano oils into water lines for antimicrobial benefits.
Its flavors can be so intense that it tingles the palette. Some say Aphrodite created its sweet, spicy scent to symbolize happiness. Oregano comes back each year.
Scientific name: Origanum vulgare Tastes: peppery, earthy, bitter, grassy, florals, mint hint Uses: French, Italian, and Turkish cuisine. Season veggies, meat. Folk medicine.
Recipe: Lemon Oregano Pesto
Ingredients: EVOO, scallion, garlic, walnuts, lemon juice, lemon zest, parmesan, parsley, oregano, salt, pepper, and red chili flakes. See link for directions.