こんにちは、料理好きの皆さん！ Are you ready for another piece about Mexican ingredients? In a previous blog post, we introduced you to some of our favorite protein-packed ingredients for vegetarian burritos. Today, we hope to familiarize you with some of the fragrant herbs that make Mexican cooking so special. While guacamoles, spices, and cooking techniques get most of the attention, it’s the fresh herbs that quietly work behind the scenes to elevate each dish.
Keep reading for all you need to know about cilantro, epazote, oregano, and how to use Mexican herbs in Japanese dishes. Whether you’re a professional chef or simply love experimenting in the kitchen, these leafy greens will open up a whole new world of flavor for you.
Contents
Cilantro: The Bold and Zesty Herb
Let’s start with cilantro, the herb that seems to divide people—some love it, while others aren’t so sure. Fresh cilantro has a bright and citrusy taste. However, some people say it tastes like soap due to its natural aldehyde chemicals. But love it or hate it, did you know cilantro is full of health benefits?
Detoxifying Power
Cilantro has natural detoxifying properties. It’s known to bind with heavy metals and help remove them from the body. The next time you enjoy a cilantro-topped dish, remember it’s doing more than adding flavor; it also gives your body a gentle cleanse.
Rich in Antioxidants
This green herb is a good source of antioxidants that help fight off cell-damaging free radicals. Adding a handful of cilantro to your meals may support overall wellness, especially if you spend long hours in front of computers, smartphones, and other screens that emit blue light.
How to Use Cilantro in Japanese Cooking
Are you worried that cilantro’s bold flavor won’t fit with Japanese cuisine? Please don’t knock it till you’ve tried it! You can finely chop cilantro and sprinkle it over soba or udon noodles for a refreshing twist. It’s also delicious mixed into dipping sauces for tempura or grilled meats, giving traditional Japanese dishes a zesty, modern upgrade.
Epazote: The Herbal Secret Weapon
Next, let’s talk about epazote, a lesser-known herb outside of Mexico but deserves the spotlight for its unique flavor and digestive health benefits. Epazote has a slightly medicinal, almost minty taste. It might seem unusual or too exotic at first, but as your taste buds get acquainted with this culinary herb, you’ll realize why it’s a key ingredient in many traditional Mexican dishes.
Digestive Health
One of epazote’s main health benefits is aiding digestion, particularly when cooked with high-fiber foods like beans. In Mexican cuisine, epazote and black bean dishes help reduce bloating and gas. So, if you plan to make some Mexican-style black beans or even red beans to go with your Japanese rice, epazote can add both a rustic layer of flavor and digestive benefits to your dish.
Nutrient Boost
Epazote is rich in vitamins A, B6, and C, along with minerals like calcium and iron. These nutrients support your immune system, energy levels, and overall vitality, making this herb a nutritional powerhouse for boosting health.
How to Use Epazote in Japanese Cooking
Epazote’s bold flavor might seem tricky to pair with Japanese cuisine, but it works surprisingly well with earthy dishes like miso soup or tofu-based recipes. If you’re adventurous, add some epazote to your okonomiyaki batter for a unique twist!
Oregano: The Mediterranean Cousin with a Mexican Twist
While oregano is typically associated with Mediterranean cooking, Mexican oregano is a bit different with its citrusy undertones. It’s popular in salsas, stews, and grilled dishes in Mexico, and it has several health benefits that make it more than just a garnish.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Mexican oregano contains anti-inflammatory compounds, which may help reduce inflammation in the body. If you’re dealing with joint pain or muscle aches, adding some Mexican oregano to your meals may help.
Immune System Support
Examples of antioxidants in oregano include arginine, lysine, tryptophan, valine, vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E (tocopherol). Together, they promote overall health and potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases by protecting the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
How to Use Oregano in Japanese Cooking
Since Mexican oregano pairs well with soy sauce-based dishes, you can add it to grilled chicken, pork, or beef marinades. You can also sprinkle a bit of oregano on roasted sweet potatoes or carrots to add a fresh, earthy note that balances out the umami-rich flavors in Japanese cuisine.
Other Magical Mexican Herbs to Explore
While cilantro, epazote, and oregano may be the stars, Mexican cuisine has other herbs worth exploring. Here are a few more you might want to try:
- Hoja Santa: Known for its licorice-like flavor, you can add hoja santa in soups and stews for an aromatic depth. Its large leaves are also perfect for wrapping fish or vegetables before steaming or grilling, much like how you might use bamboo leaves in Japanese cooking.
- Verdolagas: Verdolagas or parsley in Mexican dishes offer a fresh, clean taste. You can use these herbs as a garnish or mix them into sauces to add a tangy, refreshing flavor to heavier dishes like katsu curry or nabemono.
The trick to using these herbs is balance. You don’t need to overwhelm your dishes with them—a sprinkle here or a handful there can make all the difference. Combining the best Japanese and Mexican culinary traditions can create delicious, healthy meals that surprise and delight your taste buds.
Let’s Get Cooking
Mexican herbs like cilantro, epazote, and oregano are flavorful and packed with health benefits, making them a great addition to any kitchen. Whether you’re looking to detoxify, improve digestion, or support your immune system, these herbs have you covered. Best of all, you can incorporate them into Japanese dishes, bringing a fresh twist to your favorite meals.
次回スーパーに行ったら、ぜひこれらの魔法のようなハーブを試してみてください！ Your taste buds—and your health—will thank you for it. Happy cooking and 楽しむ！
Experience the Flavors of Mexico in Japan
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