Mezetaki's Guide to Classic Greek Herbs: Oregano, Thyme, and Rosemary
The Root of Greek Flavours: Oregano, Thyme, and Rosemary
The golden sunshine, the azure seas, and the picturesque landscapes – that’s what one might imagine when thinking about Greece. But for culinary enthusiasts, it’s the subtle nuances of herbs like oregano, thyme, and rosemary that truly encapsulate the spirit of Greek cooking. At Mezetaki, we honour these traditions by weaving them into our dishes, and now, we’re sharing the essence of these herbs with you.
Oregano – The Greek Essential
A staple in most Greek kitchens, oregano boasts an aromatic, warm, and slightly bitter taste. Its pungency intensifies when dried, making it a go-to herb for many dishes.
– Culinary Uses:
Popularly sprinkled over Greek salads, mixed into olive oil for bread dipping, or added to marinades for meats, especially lamb. The distinct flavour of oregano is also crucial for classic dishes like moussaka and souvlaki.
– Cooking Tip:
When using dried oregano, rub it between your palms before adding it to your dish. This action releases its essential oils, enhancing the flavour profile.
Thyme – The Subtle Sophisticate
Thyme is all about subtlety. With its gentle, earthy undertone, this herb complements other ingredients rather than overshadowing them.
– Culinary Uses:
In Greek cuisine, thyme often finds its way into honey, giving it a rich and multifaceted flavour. It’s also used to season meats and is a perfect addition to stews and soups.
– Cooking Tip:
Fresh thyme leaves can be stripped off their stems easily by running your fingers down the stem backward. For dishes that require a softer touch, consider using thyme sparingly at first, then adjusting to taste.
Rosemary – The Robust Aromatic
Rosemary, with its woody aroma, stands tall among Greek herbs, both in flavour and in its physical needle-like appearance. Its essence can be dominant, so it’s often used with discretion.
– Culinary Uses:
Rosemary pairs excellently with roasted dishes, particularly with lamb, chicken, and potatoes. It’s also a frequent visitor in Greek bread and olive oil infusions.
– Cooking Tip:
When using fresh rosemary, remember less is often more. Start with a small sprig and taste as you go. Additionally, it’s advisable to remove the leaves from the stem, as the stem can be quite tough.
Integrating Greek Herbs into Your Kitchen
Even if you’re thousands of kilometres away from Greece, these herbs have the power to transport your taste buds to the heart of the Mediterranean.
Herb Infused Oils:
Create your own Greek-infused oils by adding dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary to olive oil. Let it sit for a week or two, and you’ll have a fragrant oil perfect for dressings, cooking, or dipping.
Greek Herb Blend:
Combine equal parts dried oregano, thyme, and rosemary with some garlic powder, sea salt, and lemon zest. This blend can be sprinkled on almost anything to give it a touch of Greek flair.
Bringing it All Together in a South African Dish
Now, imagine blending our South African culinary heritage with these Greek herbal stars. Here’s a simple recipe to try:
Greek-inspired Braaied Chicken
Ingredients:
– 4 chicken pieces (legs or thighs)
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 sprig rosemary, chopped finely
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix the oregano, thyme, rosemary, garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and a glug of olive oil.
2. Marinate the chicken pieces in this mixture, ensuring they’re well-coated. Allow them to sit for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more intense flavour.
3. Braai the chicken on medium-hot coals, turning and basting regularly with the remaining marinade until cooked through and golden brown.
4. Serve hot with your favourite sides, and enjoy the Greek-inspired flavours in true South African style!
At Mezetaki, our love for authentic Greek cuisine runs deep. It’s not just about recipes passed down through generations but about the very herbs and spices that make them come alive. We invite you to experience this rich tapestry of flavours at our restaurant and hope this guide inspires you to infuse a bit of Greek magic into your own cooking.
