Spice #2: Marjoram
Think of marjoram as a slightly sweeter oregano. In fact, marjoram is a
type of oregano. But marjoram is more delicate and floral, lacking the abrasiveness and intensity of oregano. Marjoram's also a member of the Mint family, enhancing salad dressings, soups, stews and poultry. It's an herb that definitely deserves some love in your spice arsenal.
About Marjoram:
- You're most likely familiar with marjoram's flavor even if you don't think you've had it before. Marjoram is oftentimes found in popular herb blends like herbs de Provence.
- A symbol of happiness to the Greeks and Romans, both civilizations would crown bridal couples with wreaths of marjoram to symbolize love and joy.
- Marjoram has often been used as a steam inhalant to clear the sinuses and relieve laryngitis. European singers have preserved their voices with marjoram tea and honey for centuries.
Pairs Well With: Artichokes, basil, cinnamon, cumin, eggplant, fennel, garlic, mushrooms, onion, oregano, parsley, poultry, thyme
Preparing & Storing Marjoram:
- Marjoram is best used fresh rather than dried. Its leaves are what give it a sweet and mild flavor. For this reason, it's best to add them to your dish at the last possible moment.
- When you're ready to cook with marjoram, separate the leaves from teh stems and chop the leaves as the recipe instructs.
- To store fresh marjoram, roll it up in a damp paper towel, loosely wrap it in plastic wrap and throw it in the crisper drawer of the refrigerator.
Recipes to Try with Marjoram:
- Pairing well with poultry and tomatoes, use fresh marjoram in this Chicken Cacciatore Soup recipe.
- Marjoram can easily replace basil in many recipes try it with our Tomato Basil Soup
- Try replacing fresh oregano with fresh marjoram in your favorite salad dressing recipe like in Tuscan Bread Salad.