🌿 Spices & Herbs

Oregano Marjoram Substitute: Can You Use Oregano Instead of Marjoram?

Learn if you can substitute oregano for marjoram and how to make the swap. Discover the differences between these herbs and get cooking tips for the best results.

✓

Quick Answer

Yes, oregano is the best substitute for marjoram. Use a 1:1 ratio, but note that oregano is more bitter and pungent than the sweeter, milder marjoram.

Best Substitutes

Oregano

1:1

Oregano is the closest substitute for marjoram as they're related herbs. It has a similar earthy, aromatic quality but is more bitter and pungent than marjoram's sweet, mild flavor.

Best for:

Italian cookingMediterranean dishespizzapasta saucesmeat dishes

Most similar herb, but more bitter and pungent

Oregano + Mint Blend

3:1 (3 parts oregano to 1 part mint)

Combining oregano with a small amount of mint helps replicate marjoram's sweeter, milder character. The mint softens oregano's bitterness while maintaining the herbal complexity.

Best for:

soupsstewsvegetable dishesherb blends

Softens oregano's bitterness with mint's sweetness

Oregano + Thyme Blend

2:1 (2 parts oregano to 1 part thyme)

Thyme's floral notes help balance oregano's bitterness, creating a more complex flavor profile that's closer to marjoram's sweet, aromatic character.

Best for:

roasted vegetablespoultryfishherb rubs

Adds floral notes to balance oregano's bitterness

Oregano + Basil Blend

2:1 (2 parts oregano to 1 part basil)

Basil's sweetness helps counter oregano's bitterness, creating a more balanced flavor that's closer to marjoram's mild, sweet character.

Best for:

Italian dishestomato saucespizzapasta

Adds sweetness to counter oregano's bitterness

Oregano + Parsley Blend

3:1 (3 parts oregano to 1 part parsley)

Parsley's mild, fresh flavor helps soften oregano's intensity, making it closer to marjoram's gentle, sweet character.

Best for:

soupsstewsvegetable dishesherb butter

Adds freshness and mildness to oregano

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Use oregano as a direct 1:1 replacement for marjoram in most recipes
  • 💡Add oregano earlier in cooking than you would marjoram, as it's more robust
  • 💡For a closer match to marjoram's sweetness, combine oregano with mint or basil
  • 💡Oregano works best in cooked dishes where its intensity can mellow
  • 💡Fresh oregano is stronger than dried - use less if substituting for fresh marjoram
  • 💡Oregano pairs well with the same foods as marjoram: poultry, fish, vegetables, and tomatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

Learn if you can substitute oregano for marjoram and how to make the swap. Discover the differences between these herbs and get cooking tips for the best results.