Oregano is a vigorously growing and wonderfully fragrant herb that has become indispensable in our kitchen. Harvest the oregano preferably during or shortly after the flowering period, which extends from June to August. You can prune the oregano back to about a hand’s breadth from the ground at this point. In order to get the full aroma, it is advisable to process the oregano quickly.

The typical aroma

Oregano contains numerous essential oils and phenols, which are responsible for the herb's strong, spicy flavor. They are also attributed an antibacterial effect, which makes oregano a valuable medicinal herb.

Oregano - the spice of the south

The strong aroma of oregano harmonizes perfectly with all the herbs and spices used in Mediterranean cuisine. Dost, as oregano is also called, is the pizza spice par excellence. Oregano gives many Mediterranean dishes such as tomato sauce or mussaka their unmistakable aroma. However, it not only goes well with summer dishes, but also gives a hearty potato stew an interesting touch.

Throughout the summer you can flavor these dishes with the freshly picked leaves and flowers of oregano. Add the herb to the dishes at least fifteen minutes before the end of the cooking time.

Process fresh oregano

Freshly harvested oregano tastes a little milder than dried and conjures up a pleasant note in the dishes. The aromatic, edible flowers are suitable as a pretty decoration for southern dishes. They can be consumed without hesitation.

shelf life

Freshly cut oregano can be stored in a plastic container or plastic wrap for a few days in the refrigerator. Like many other herbs, oregano can be frozen.

Dry oregano

Oregano is one of the few herbs whose aroma intensifies when dried. The best time to process oregano in this way is during or just after flowering, as this is when the oregano tastes the most intense.

Whole branches of the herb are always dried, loosely tied together and hung upside down. Then pluck the leaves and flowers from the stems and store the oregano in tightly closed containers in a dark place.

tips and tricks

Oregano is an excellent remedy for relieving the common cold. A tea infusion or a bath with Dost has an expectorant effect, stimulates expectoration and relieves annoying coughing.

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Vegetable garden