Dried oregano
Description
Dried oregano consists of small, green, often crushed leaves with an intense, herbal aroma featuring notes of camphor, mint, and a spicy bitterness; in its dried form, it can be crushed into flakes or ground into powder, releasing a strong, warming fragrance. Nutritionally, oregano is low in calories and provides trace amounts of vitamin K and minerals such as iron, calcium, and manganese, as well as powerful antioxidants (including rosmarinic acid and carvacrol), which are attributed with anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as well as aiding digestion. In the kitchen, dried oregano pairs wonderfully with tomatoes, olive oil, meat (especially poultry and lamb), Italian and Mediterranean dishes, soups, stewed vegetables, marinades, and dressings, as well as being a component of herb blends. It should be stored in an airtight, opaque container away from light, moisture, and heat sources; whole leaves retain their aroma longer (up to 1–2 years), while ground oregano is best consumed within 6–12 months.
