Involved in the catabolism of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) via the tricarboxylic acid (TCA)(acetyl degradation route) and via the 2-methylcitrate cycle I (propionate degradation route). Catalyzes the Claisen condensation of propionyl-CoA and oxaloacetate (OAA) to yield 2-methylcitrate (2-MC) and CoA. Also catalyzes the condensation of oxaloacetate with acetyl-CoA but with a lower efficiency