Oregano(ओरिगेनो)
Hindi Name: ओरिगेनो
Oregano is an aromatic herb that is native to northern Europe. The leaves and seeds are used widely in Mexican and Mediterranean cuisines. It is known for its aromatic and medicinal properties since ancient times. It is available fresh and in dried form.
Uses
Common oregano is known as origanum vulgare meaning "joy of the mountains" in Greek. Its leaves are dried and used for flavoring purposes. Oregano plant also sports pink and purple flowers which are considered edible. It is a staple herb in Italian-American cuisine. It is used with roasted, fried or grilled vegetables, meat or fish. It is preferred in south Italy as a very close alternative for marjoram is better used in northern Italy. In Turkish food, it is used to flavor meat.
Nutritional Value
1. It is an effective anti-bacterial due to the presence of Thymol and Carvacrol that inhibit the growth of bacteria in the body.
2. Oregano contains numerous phytonutrients makes it a powerful antioxidant. Research has found that oregano herb demonstrates 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples.
3. It is also a very good source of fiber that works against cancer causing toxins and helps prevent colon cancer.
4. Being high in fiber content, it helps lower cholesterol levels.
5. It is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, vitamin E, iron and calcium.
Did you know?
Ancient Greeks believed that cows that grazed on the oregano fields produced tastier meat.
Recipes using Oregano
This light and flavourful vegan pizza is made from scratch and topped with fresh avocado, zucchini, bell peppers and olives.
Make your plain old breakfast toast fun and quirky with this incredibly easy recipe. Sprinkle some spices, herbs or cheese on top and indulge!
Peri peri chicken is a world renowned dish, famous for its bold, vibrant and extremely spicy flavour.
Mexican quesadillas overloaded with exotic vegetables, layered with a spicy sauce and lots of cheese.
Watermelon balls, fresh lettuce, feta and a splash of lime creates the best salad ever! Honey, pine nuts and a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil make it go savory, refreshing and just divine!
A burrito is a delicious, portable answer to on-the-go meals. Rice, beans, bell peppers, all are snugly wrapped in a salsa smeared tortilla, keeping everything warm for long and making it full of flavours.
Delicious cabbage leaf parcels stuffed with soft spinach and baked till it's perfectly cooked and crispy.
Gorge on the vegetarian version of the traditional three layered Greek moussaka. Beautiful eggplants are fried golden brown and served with a blend of spices, fresh veggies and tomato puree.
Beautiful corn kernels are wrapped in semolina batter, infused with milk, herbs and red chillies, deep fried to a crispy perfection.
Experience the freshness of herbs and veggies combined with a subtle drizzle of a refreshing dressing. This vibrant salad adds a splash of beautiful colours on your plate!