Hyssop, an herb often mentioned in the Bible, was used by the Jews for offering sacrifices and as a cleaning agent, according to Smith's Bible Dictionary. However, hyssop can also be used for culinary purposes because of its variations in flavor. Does this Spark an idea?
Uses
Hyssop has a minty taste, and some people use it in teas or sauces. Hyssop can also be used to flavor meats and soups, but it is only necessary to use a small amount because the flavor is pungent, according to WSAC.com.
Types
According to Smith's Bible Dictionary, the hyssop mentioned in the Bible could be one of three plant types. The common hyssop, a shrub-like plant, is native to southern Europe and has a warm taste, similar to anise. The second type of hyssop has slender stems and a taste similar to marjoram or oregano, and the third variety is believed to be the caper, also known as the mountain pepper, and has a peppercorn-like taste.
Considerations
If you're cooking with hyssop, combining it with other ingredients to form a sauce or paste can help to balance the strong flavor. For instance, Origanum syriacum, a variation of hyssop, is commonly used in Palestine for savory dishes. "It is available in dried form in almost any Arab market as a mixture of hyssop, sesame seeds, salt and sometimes olive oil," according to Old Dominion University.
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