Forktionary

Greek Oregano

Origanum vulgare hirtum Herb / Spice

Greek Oregano Herb / Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Herb / Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The Mediterranean Staple"

Definition

A highly aromatic herb known for its robust, peppery, and slightly bitter flavor, essential to Mediterranean and especially Greek cuisine.

Dried Herb Shelf Life 1-3 years (in airtight container)
Essential Oil Content (Dried) Typically 1-3.5%
Primary Flavor Compound Carvacrol

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Greek Oregano are:

Robust peppery slightly bitter earthy

Chef’s Secret

To revive dried Greek oregano, gently rub it between your palms before adding to a dish; this releases its essential oils and aroma.

Best Substitutes

Marjoram

milder
Ratio 1:1

Mexican Oregano

different notes
Ratio 1:1

Italian Seasoning

blend
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for vibrant green dried leaves; avoid dull, dusty-looking oregano, which indicates old age.

Culinary Pairings

Lamb chicken fish tomatoes feta cheese olives lemon olive oil pizza

Recipes Using Greek Oregano

Annis Black Bean Chili image
Easy Course Black Beans Preparation

Annis Black Bean Chili

A taste of Santa Fe magic! This black bean chili recipe is inspired by a legendary encounter at Mark Miller's Coyote Café. Years ago, a sous chef's whispered hint of chocolate in his chili sparked this creation. Get ready for a rich, complex flavor profile that's both smoky and subtly sweet, perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe is easily doubled for a crowd!

See Complete Recipe