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Is Majoram the Same as Oegano?

Majoram is NOT the same as oregano.

More Info: Though majoram and oregano are similar plants from the same family, the two are distinct. 

Flavoring foods is a key part of cooking, but it requires a full understanding of the different herbs and words used to describe the herbs. Without learning the basics of different herbs, it is easy to end up changing the flavors of foods. The confusion between marjoram and oregano is understandable because the herbs have similar chemical features, flavors, and appearances.

Marjoram

When referring to marjoram, the herb in question is also called sweet marjoram or knot marjoram. While this herb is closely related to the common oregano and it grows in the same region, the leaves are thinner and smaller, creating a knotted appearance. Marjoram is in the same family of plants as oregano and it can be substituted for the other herb, but it has a slightly sweeter taste.

Oregano

Oregano is sometimes called wild marjoram, which leads to confusion when trying to determine if the plants are the same. Unlike the sweet marjoram, which is the dried or fresh herb labeled with the name, oregano is a little stronger in flavor and does not have the sweet taste that is associated with marjoram. When substituting oregano for marjoram, less of this stronger herb is used in the recipe. 

  Similarities

Oregano and marjoram are from the same family of plants. As a result, the flavor is similar enough that it is possible to substitute one herb for the other in cooking. Since oregano has a stronger flavor, substitutions usually use less than the amount of marjoram. Using oregano as a substitution requires around 1/3 less herb while substituting marjoram for oregano will require about 1/3 more of the herb.

Oregano and marjoram are often confused due to the similarities in taste and family, but the two plants are different. Though oregano is sometimes called wild marjoram, it is less sweet and much stronger in flavor.