cuban oregano © Clare Richards 2010

It is quite likely if you live in or around Cairns that you’ve seen this plant and perhaps even have it growing in your garden.  Cuban Oregano, scientific name Plectranthus amboinicus, obtains its common name due to its very oregano-like flavour.  The leaves are used finely chopped due to their succulent texture and strong flavour.  It can be used in any dish where you would usually use oregano, and because it has greater intensity of flavour than standard oregano it is also worth trying it in dishes that call for sage.  When using to replace fresh oregano, use less than usual due to its greater strength, but if replacing dried oregano you can use the same amount (ie. replace 1 tbsp dried oregano with 1 tbsp finely diced fresh Cuban oregano).

© Clare Richards 2010