Sunday, May 22, 2016

Herbal Tips - Marjoram

Marjoram (Origanum majorana or vulgare)
Marjoram is associated with the element air and the planet Mercury. A true herb of the Mediterranean it grows wild over the hills. Marjoram brings happiness when depressed, and is protective when carried. Medicinally marjoram has a calming effect on the nerves, and is helpful relieving tension and aiding digestion.

Culinary
Herb aficionados have a favorite saying: "when in doubt, use marjoram", which neatly sums up marjoram’s ability to delicately complement, without overpowering, any dish. Marjoram makes excellent stuffing for chicken and turkey roasts; and is also used in homemade sausages and meats that are to be cured or smoked. The Chopped leaves are added to egg or cheese dishes, fish, lamb, poultry, and vegetables. It makes an attractive garnish for bean and pea soups, and the flowers add a peppery flavor when sprinkled over salads and soups.

Marjoram is one of the rare herbs whose flavor intensifies when dried. Mushrooms cooked with a stuffing of marjoram in their caps leaves them filled with a unique flavor. Marjoram also works well in combination with other herbs in spice blends such as bouquet garni and fine herbs.

Gardening
Grown in your garden it offers shielding powers against evil. Marjoram should be located in areas receiving full sun and rich well-drained soil. Marjoram is drought tolerant so it makes an exceptional plant for beginner herb growers. Established plants require little care, other than occasional watering.

Harvest & Storing
Cut fresh leaves as needed once plants are 4 to 6 inches tall. When harvesting marjoram, pick the shoots just before flowers begin to open as this results in the best flavor. Bundle marjoram cuttings and hang them upside down in a dark, dry, well-ventilated area. Keep fresh marjoram in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for a few days. Dry leaves and flowers can be stored in an airtight container in a dark cool cabinet.

#culinary #enchantments #gardens #healthyeating #herbs #herbharvest #livinggreen #marjoram #naturalfoods #noordinarychick

No comments:

Post a Comment