Substituting regular oregano for Mexican oregano is possible, but it’s important to note that the two have distinct flavors. While they both belong to the mint family, they differ in taste and aroma. Mexican oregano has a stronger, more robust flavor with citrus and earthy undertones, whereas regular oregano has a milder, slightly sweeter flavor profile.
Having grown both regular oregano and Mexican oregano in my garden, I have had the opportunity to compare the two firsthand. Regular oregano, also known as Mediterranean oregano or Origanum vulgare, is commonly used in Italian, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisine. It has a pleasant, herbaceous taste that pairs well with tomato-based dishes, pizzas, and pasta sauces. On the other hand, Mexican oregano, scientifically known as Lippia graveolens, is often used in Mexican and Latin American cooking. Its distinct flavor complements spicy dishes, salsa, and various types of meat, adding a unique depth of flavor.
If you find yourself in a situation where you don’t have Mexican oregano on hand, you can substitute it with regular oregano, but there will be a noticeable difference in taste. To get closer to the flavor of Mexican oregano, a better substitute would be marjoram. Marjoram, a member of the oregano family, has a slightly sweeter and more delicate flavor that is reminiscent of Mexican oregano. It can be used in similar quantities as Mexican oregano in your recipes.
To illustrate the difference between regular oregano and Mexican oregano, let’s take a closer look at a classic Mexican dish like chili con carne. Traditional chili recipes often call for Mexican oregano to enhance the flavors of the meat and spices. If you were to use regular oregano instead, the dish would still be tasty, but it would lack that distinct Mexican flavor profile. However, by using marjoram as a substitute, you can capture some of the essence of Mexican oregano and add a similar depth of flavor to your chili.
While regular oregano and Mexican oregano can be used interchangeably in a pinch, they have different flavor profiles. If you want to replicate the authentic taste of Mexican cuisine, using Mexican oregano is ideal. However, if you don’t have Mexican oregano available, marjoram is a closer substitute in terms of flavor. Ultimately, the choice of oregano or its substitutes depends on the specific dish you are preparing and your personal preference.
