Dried oregano
Description
Dried oregano consists of small, brittle leaves with a gray-green hue and an intense, slightly spicy-bitter aroma with camphor notes. Its flavor is concentrated after drying, which means that a small amount adds distinctiveness and Mediterranean warmth to dishes. Nutritionally, oregano provides fiber, antioxidants (which inhibit lipid oxidation), vitamin K, and trace amounts of vitamins A and E, as well as minerals such as calcium and iron; it exhibits anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and digestive-supporting properties. In the kitchen, it is indispensable in Italian and Greek dishes, complementing tomato sauces, pizza, pasta dishes, meats, roasted vegetables, marinades, and dressings. Store in an airtight, opaque container in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture; optimal freshness lasts about 6–12 months, after which the aroma diminishes.
