Marjoram Delivery or Pickup

Marjoram is a Mediterranean herb that belongs to the mint family. It's part of the Origanum genus that has about 40 different species, most of which are types of oregano. Though it's often confused for oregano, marjoram is its own distinct herb.

Marjoram has small, fuzzy, oval-shaped leaves that grow in small clusters. Though it's native to the Mediterranean, western Asia, and North Africa, marjoram is now grown in the United States in zone 9 and above. In these warmer climates, marjoram is a perennial herb. In northern zones, marjoram is often grown as an annual that dies off in the cold winter months. Marjoram likes warm temperatures, full sunlight, and well-drained soil.

Marjoram has a bright, citrusy taste with floral and woody notes. Some find that marjoram reminds them of sweet pine. The taste is similar to oregano and thyme, though it's stronger and may have a bitter aftertaste. Once you get acquainted with marjoram, you'll find that there are many ways you can incorporate this herb into your meals.

If you're purchasing fresh marjoram from the grocery store, you should look for leaves that are green and plump with no signs of wilting or browning. To retain the freshness of these herbs, you should wrap them in a damp paper towel and keep them in an airtight container in the fridge. Don't separate the leaves from the stems or chop them until you're ready to use the herbs.

When purchasing dried marjoram, the most important thing to look at is the best by date. Though marjoram won't go bad, its flavor will deteriorate. The further the best by date is, the better the dried herb will taste.

You can leave notes for your Instacart shopper within your order to give them more details on what to look for when they're selecting your herbs!

Marjoram is used in a few well-known spice blends where its citrusy flavor adds a lively kick. Herbes de Provence is a blend of marjoram with basil, lavender, thyme, fennel, and rosemary. Za'atar is a middle eastern blend that incorporates oregano, thyme, sumac, and sesame with marjoram.

Marjoram can also be used to add flavor to a wide range of dishes such as sausage, tomato sauce, poultry, pizza, meat marinades, and delicate vegetables such as leeks, green beans, and peas. The citrus notes in marjoram go well with citrus fruits like oranges. You might try using marjoram with an orange sauce over fish or chicken.

Marjoram can add interest to a frittata or fried egg sandwich in the morning. It's well-balanced with goat cheese and ricotta as well. If you want to cut some of the spiciness of a curry or chipotle dish, marjoram can work in these applications as well.

Marjoram also has some purported health benefits. It's said to help ease cramps, nausea, vomiting, and flatulence. It may also reduce swelling. Marjoram is often used in a tea, extract, or essential oil for these purposes.