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Make the most of culinary herbs and spices.

What’s the difference between marjoram and oregano? Depends on who you ask. Many botanists believe they are the same but a chef will tell you the difference is huge. Oregano was long considered “wild marjoram” but the plants do not look particularly similar. To confuse matters further, marjoram is a member of the mint family and considered the twin of thyme.

 

Marjoram has a more mild, sweet flavor than oregano with perhaps a hint of balsam. It is said to be “the” meat herb but compliments all foods except sweets. Common to Mediterranean and Middle Eastern foods, marjoram is grown domestically and imported mostly from Egypt.

 

Egyptians used marjoram, along with other fragrant spices, to appease the gods in the embalming process. Hippocrates included marjoram in the many medical treatises he wrote and it was cultivated in the Roman Empire. Symbolizing happiness, when marjoram is found growing on a grave, it is said that the departed will enjoy a pleasant afterlife.

 

Marjoram, Origanum marjorana, is easy to grow from seed as long as you wait to plant until after all danger of frost has passed. It thrives with full sun and somewhat dry conditions, growing to a compact 8 or 10-inches. Mid-season, tiny white or pink clumps of flowers will form at the tips of the marjoram plant. To extend the life of the plant and encourage more leaf production, remove these buds as they form.

 

Although classified as a perennial, marjoram is sensitive to cold weather and will wither when exposed to frost. To bring it indoors for the winter, take clippings to root in water. In the warmest of climates, you may get another round of growth by cutting the plant back hard in the fall.

 

The delicate floral aroma of marjoram lends itself well to soaps, pomanders and herbal wreaths. Ornamental varieties such as the variegated or creeping types make attractive additions to the garden but are less flavorful than true sweet marjoram.

 

Marjoram really shines in the kitchen. Dried, the herb holds that lovely fragrance and its flavor much better than other herbs do when dried. Marjoram combines well with other seasonings and will enhance so many different dishes.

 

Consider it a natural for meat dishes but don't hesitate to use marjoram to season vegetables served cooked or raw, fish and chicken or dishes with eggs and/or cheese. It is especially good along with other herbs in beef stew.

 

 

My Best Beef Jerky

 

3 pounds round steak or other lean beef

1/3 cup Worcestershire sauce

1/4 cup tamari (or light soy sauce)

1 1/2 teaspoons dried marjoram

1 1/4 teaspoons dried thyme leaves

1 teaspoon granulated garlic

3/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

1/8 teaspoon mustard powder

 

Cut any visible fat or gristle from the beef.  Slice across the grain into 1/2-inch wide strips about 6 inches long.  Set aside.

 

Mix remaining ingredients together in a deep glass bowl or sturdy zip-lock plastic bag.  Add meat strips; toss well to coat.  Cover with plastic wrap or seal tight and refrigerate 24 hours. Toss the mixture every now and then while marinating.

 

Using an oven thermometer, heat the oven to 140 degrees (F).

 

Transfer the meat strips to a rack over a pan that will allow air to circulate but will also catch drips from the marinade. The strips may touch each other but should not overlap.

 

Place the rack/pan in the center of the 140 degree oven and allow to dry for about 10 hours. Start watching after 8 or 9 hours since drying times will vary.  When finished, the strips will be pliable but dry in appearance.

 

 

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