The Secret Weapon of Spanish Cuisine: Oregano and How to Store and Use It Like a Pro

Ever wondered why Spanish dishes like paella, sofrito, and even gazpacho have that unmistakable, earthy, and slightly minty flavor that makes your taste buds dance? Chances are, you've heard the word “oregano” before, but do you know how to properly store and use it to bring out its full potential? In this blog post, we dive deep into the world of oregano—its origins, its role in Spanish cuisine, and most importantly, how to keep it fresh and flavorful for all your cooking adventures.

What Exactly Is Oregano?

Oregano, a member of the mint family, is a fragrant herb that has been used for centuries in Mediterranean and Latin American cuisines. The name “oregano” comes from the Greek words “oros” (mountain) and “ganos” (joy), which literally translates to “joy of the mountain.” And it’s easy to see why—oregano adds a unique depth of flavor that can elevate any dish.

Types of Oregano: A Quick Comparison

Type	Flavor Profile	Common Uses
European Oregano	Earthy, slightly bitter, and peppery	Used in Italian and Spanish dishes
Mexican Oregano	Smoky, citrusy, and more intense	Used in Mexican and Southwestern dishes
Italian Oregano	Milder, more aromatic	Used in pizza, pasta, and tomato-based sauces

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to store and use oregano like a pro.

Pro Tips for Storing Oregano

Proper storage is key to maintaining the potency and flavor of oregano. Here are some of the best storage hacks that will keep your oregano fresh for weeks, if not months.

1. Fresh Oregano: The Best Way to Store It

If you’ve just bought fresh oregano, there are a few simple ways to store it:

• Wrap in a damp paper towel and store in a plastic bag in the fridge: This method keeps the leaves from drying out and can last up to a week.
• Place in a glass jar with a bit of water: Similar to storing basil, this can keep the leaves fresh for up to two weeks.
• Freeze for long-term storage: Freeze the leaves in an ice cube tray with a bit of water or olive oil. This is perfect for adding to soups, stews, or sauces later.

Freezing is especially useful for those who want to use oregano in cooked dishes, as the freezing process preserves the flavor and aroma.

2. Dried Oregano: A Long-Lasting Alternative

If you’re buying dried oregano, here’s how to store it:

• Airtight container in a cool, dark place: Dried oregano can be stored for up to a year in an airtight container. Make sure it's kept away from heat and moisture.
• Use a spice jar with a tight lid: For convenience, store it in a labeled spice jar. This is also great for keeping it organized in your kitchen.
• Don’t store in the fridge unless you’re in a very humid climate: While refrigeration is an option, it’s usually unnecessary if you have a cool and dry storage space.

Pro tip: When using dried oregano, add it early in the cooking process to allow its flavor to fully develop. Oregano is more potent in dried form, so a little goes a long way.

How to Use Oregano Like a Chef

Now that you know how to store oregano, it’s time to learn how to use it like a pro. Here are some of the best ways to incorporate oregano into your cooking.

1. Use It in Sofrito

Oregano is a key ingredient in sofrito, the Spanish and Latin American base for many dishes. Sofrito is a mixture of sautéed onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes, often including oregano, paprika, and sometimes even a bit of cinnamon. This mixture is used as a flavor base for dishes like paella, stews, and even rice.

Pro Tip: Use about 1 teaspoon of dried oregano per cup of sofrito to add depth of flavor. If using fresh, use about 1 tablespoon and add it early in the cooking process.

2. Add It to Pizza and Pasta Dishes

Oregano is a staple in Italian cuisine, especially in pizza and pasta dishes. It pairs beautifully with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil.

• Pizza: Sprinkle a few pinches of oregano over the tomato sauce before adding cheese.
• Pasta: Mix dried oregano into your pasta sauce for an extra layer of flavor.

Pro tip: Fresh oregano can be used in place of basil in some dishes, though it has a slightly more intense flavor.

3. Use It in Meat Dishes

Oregano is a fantastic herb for seasoning meats, especially in Spanish and Mediterranean dishes. It pairs well with grilled chicken, lamb, and even sausages.

• Marinades: Add dried oregano to your marinade for a bold, earthy flavor.
• Seasoning blends: Mix oregano with garlic, salt, and pepper for a simple seasoning blend that works on any meat.

Pro tip: Oregano is more robust than other herbs like thyme or rosemary, so it can stand up to high heat and long cooking times.

4. Try It in Baked Goods

While oregano is more commonly used in savory dishes, it can also add a unique twist to baked goods like bread, focaccia, and even cookies. A small amount of oregano can add a surprising depth of flavor.

Pro tip: Use dried oregano in baked goods, as the heat of baking will help release its aroma and flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Oregano

Even the best chefs can fall into the trap of overusing or underusing oregano. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using too much: Oregano is potent, so a little goes a long way. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste.
• Adding it too late: Oregano needs time to infuse its flavor into the dish. Add it early in the cooking process for the best results.
• Using the wrong type: Make sure you’re using the right type of oregano for your dish. European oregano is more commonly used in Spanish and Italian dishes, while Mexican oregano is better suited for Southwestern and Mexican cooking.

Pro tip: Always use fresh oregano in dishes where you want the herb to be a prominent flavor, and dried oregano in recipes where it’s used as a background flavor.

Conclusion: Oregano – The Unsung Hero of Flavor

Oregano may not be the flashiest herb in your kitchen, but it’s one of the most versatile and powerful. From sofrito to pizza, from meat dishes to baked goods, oregano adds a unique depth of flavor that can transform even the simplest of meals into something extraordinary.

Now that you know the best ways to store and use oregano, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a true master of flavor. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a curious home cook, oregano is a must-have in your spice and herb collection.

So go ahead—grab some oregano, and let your taste buds enjoy the journey.

Remember, the key to using oregano like a pro is to store it properly and use it at the right time. With a little practice, you’ll be creating dishes that are bursting with flavor in no time.

Happy cooking, and may your oregano always be fresh and fragrant!