Scientific name: Origanum majorana
Higher classification: Oreganos
Rank: Species
Family: Lamiaceae
Common name : marjoram
What is origanum majorana?
Origanum majorana, commonly called sweet marjorum, is a bushy sub-shrub with aromatic foliage that typically grows in an upright mound to 1-2' tall. It is widely cultivated as an annual culinary herb. Leaves are milder with a more delicate flavor than those of perennial oregano (Origanum vulgare). Sweet marjorum features branching, reddish, square stems that are densely clad with ovate, highly aromatic, pubescent, gray-green leaves (to 1.25" long). Tiny, two-lipped, tubular, white or pale pink flowers with gray-green bracts bloom in spike-like clusters from mid to late summer. Flowers are not particularly showy. Marjorum is a popular herb (fresh or dried) for seasoning soups, sauces, salads, stuffings, stews, roasts, vegetables and meats. Fresh leaves do not freeze as well as oregano leaves. Dried leaves are sometimes added to potpourris.
Genus name probably comes from the Greek words oros meaning "mountain" and gamos meaning "beauty" in reference to the physical appearance of this plant which is sometimes native of mountain areas where it is appropriately referred to as "beauty of the mountain".
What does origanum majorana taste like?
The rest of the species are oregano. This is why most people mistake marjoram with oregano.
However, marjoram and oregano are two different herbs. The two share a similar flavor, but the former has a relatively milder taste and aroma than the latter.
Marjoram is a little sweeter than oregano and also doesn’t contain any spicy flavor, unlike oregano.
Because of all the confusion between the two herbs, marjoram has other names such as sweet marjoram or knotted marjoram.
The name “knotted marjoram” also comes from the fact that the herb’s green oval-shaped leaves grow in such a way of creating clusters or knots.
The major flavors you can expect from the marjoram herb are floral, woody, citrusy, and fresh.
Since marjoram has a warm and slightly bitter taste, you can even compare the flavor with that of thyme herb. However, marjoram is relatively sweeter and has a stronger aroma than thyme.
There are two basic types of marjoram – fresh and dried. Dried marjoram is more potent than fresh marjoram.
Thus, if you want to substitute the two, you can use about one teaspoon of dried marjoram for one tablespoon of fresh ones. Besides its flavoring culinary uses, marjoram is also rich in nutrients.
It is rich in certain vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals
What are the culinary uses for origanum majorana?
The herb marjoram has a milder flavor than ore, and it is sweet and mild and has a slightly woody aroma. Unlike oregano, marjoram does not have a spicy flavor, making it an excellent substitute for oregano. In addition to its unique flavor, it has health benefits. The herb can be used in many dishes and is most commonly used in meat marinades.
Marjoram is used in both North American and Mediterranean cuisines. It is a common addition to tomato-based dishes, stuffings, and meats. It can be used in salad dressings and is often added to meats. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile spice for many dishes, and its sweet flavor makes it an excellent addition to chicken, lamb, and pork. It is also a great ingredient in savory soups.
Marjoram is an herb that has a subtle, sweet-spicy flavor that pairs well with seafood, meat, and vegetables. Its delicate flavor makes it a great addition to many dishes. It pairs well with meat, seafood, vegetables, and pulses. It can be used in many recipes but should be added last. You should also consider using it in the citrus marinade of meats. It can also help cure indigestion.
What are the Health benefits of origanum majorana?
Because of its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial qualities, marjoram is widely used in traditional and alternative medicine. The fresh or dried leaves can be brewed as tea or marjoram essential oil extracted from the plant.
It may help treat colds, coughs, and asthma, aid digestion, help regulate menstrual cycles, increase milk supply during breastfeeding, and decrease blood pressure. Before utilizing plants for therapeutic purposes, always consult your doctor.