Organic Sicilian Oregano — From Gangi Dante - Italy

This incredibly fragrant, organic oregano comes from Petralia Sottana on the island of Sicily. Left on the branch to dry, the oregano is intense and wonderfully woodsy.

If you've tried the world's other oreganos, from Greek to Mexican, you will surely enjoy the flavor of this authentic, organic Sicilian oregano. Not as musty as Mexican and less acrid than Greek oregano, in the words of the producer, Gangi Dante, its "aromas will perfume you of the Mediterranean."

Use for seasoning pizzas, tomato sauces, sautéed vegetables, salads, braised dishes and more. Once you taste it, you will be looking for things on which it can be used. And, there is a lot of this special oregano in just one package!

Oregano is a member of Lamiaceae, the nectar-producing mint family that includes marjoram, thyme, and lavender as relatives. There are many different species of oregano but Gangi Dante’s dry rocky soil was planted with the spicy, slightly bitter Wild Oregano (Origanum vulgare).

It is a perennial plant which grows up to 20 inches tall, and it produces spear branches with purple flowers and round shape, dark green leaves. Oregano prefers a hot, dry climate, dry soils and full sun.

The green to gray foliage and upright stacks are harvested in September just as the small oregano blossoms start to open. Carefully gathered by hand, the branches of oregano are laid on coarse fiber mats protected by canopies to shade them from the direct sunlight and allowing for air circulation.

The oregano is gently turned a few times to ensure even drying throughout the drying process until dry to the touch but not brittle. The vibrant color remains and the essential oils are locked in and intensified. The oregano is then tied in bouquet bunches. After drying the oregano has bright flavors with hints of mint, marjoram and lemon scents.

Using your fingertips, gently crush the oregano blossoms over sliced tomatoes, grilled vegetables and potato salad. Wonderful to sprinkle on grilled fish, chicken and roast lamb. Use as a brush with olive oil for added flavor when grilling. Yum!!!

THE DETAILS

Producer: Gangi Dante

County of Origin: Italy

Region: Sicily

Size: 25 grams / 0.9 ounces

Organic: Yes