Marjoram (Origanum Marjorana) is a member of the mint family same as basil, sage and oregano which shares it’s Latin family name with this sweet aromatic herb (Origanum). Marjoram originally hales from the Mediterranean area . In ancient Greece it was said that Aphrodite herself created the herb along with Oregano and gave it it’s scent. Throughout history marjoram has been associated with love, marriage, happiness, and honor.
This herb has a flavor similar to oregano but is much more delicate. With its sweet woodsy aroma It pairs perfectly with chicken and other poultry and is a common ingredient in Herbs de Provence and Italian Seasoning. It is a common additive in French and Mediterranean cuisine and best when added at the end of cooking time so the flavor does not become diluted.
The flowers are also edible and tasty, once clipped they can be used in herb blends or on their own. Marjoram is also medicinal and has mild anti-oxidant and anti-fungal properties, with proper applications it can even be used as a mild pain reliever.
Marjoram is a perennial herb which grows in a shrub formation with small round bright green leaves. It should be given plenty of room to grow, and well-drained soil. The best way to start this plant is from a seed which is grown in doors during late winter and then transplanted outdoors once all frost is gone in a spot likely to receive a lot of sun.
The seedlings are very small and need to be handled tenderly, cold or even too many weeds can destroy the seedlings. Make sure to pluck the flower buds before they bloom, allowing marjoram to flower will turn the leaves bitter. If it starts to become woody it should be trimmed back and it will re-grow. It can survive well in a drought and is a perfect plant for your first herb garden.
While it can be used fresh this is a simple herb to dry, once it has been harvested it should be bundled with twine and hung upside down in a dark dry place for a few days. Once it has completely dried it can be crumbled and sprinkled into your dish.
It is easily located with the fresh or dried herbs in your local grocery store if you wish to experiment with this versatile herb yourself, or perhaps you’ll be more inclined to try growing it in your herb garden. Whichever you choose you’ll be sure to enjoy it.
For more about marjoram check out these sites!
http://www.biolib.cz/en/taxonimage/id55656/
http://www.english-country-garden.com/flowers/marjoram.htm
http://www.food-info.net/uk/products/spices/marjoram.htm
