A relative of the mint family (Lamiaceae), thyme is an aromatic, Southern European herb that has been used for centuries. Popular to Mediterranian cuisine, it is known for its variety of flavors, medicinal properties, and ornamental uses. There are over 350 species of thyme, all with strong hints of lemon, clove, and mint fragrance. Thyme quickly became a popular herb and is now grown all over the world.  This post is all about cooking with thyme.

What is Thyme?

Thyme is a small, evergreen, perennial plant. Its leaves grow on clusters of thin, woody stems. It is mostly harvested in warm summer months and sold in bunches of “springs”. Its leaves and white to pink flowers can be used fresh or dried in the culinary setting. Thyme contains potassium, magnesium, Vitamin C and Vitamin A.

Thyme in Cooking

French or English thyme is used most often in cooking. Many recipes call for thyme. These include soups, stews, marinades, poultry, and seafood dishes. It is slow to release its flavors. Make sure to add it early in the cooking process. If a recipe calls for a “sprig” of thyme, this means that the intact leaves and stems should be used. The leaves will fall off the stem then it can be removed before serving. To store fresh thyme be sure to wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in the fridge. This storage method will keep thyme fresh for about a month. Freezing thyme will increase its shelflife to 4-6 months. Store dried thyme in a cool, dry, dark place, away from sunlight. As a result, it will last for about one year.

Recipe Ideas

Thyme is a diverse plant. It pairs wonderfully with other herbs. Check out this Italian Spice Blend recipe. It is perfect for seasoning meat, seafood, and pasta. Feel free to exclude the salt to make this a heart-healthy blend. This Asparagus ‘n’ Shrimp with Angel Hair feels like summer. This recipe incorporates an array of spices including thyme. Try this low-salt, vegetarian Creamy Lentils with Spinach and Thyme recipe. With 7 oz of lentils, this protein-packed meal is an easy-to-make recipe idea. Consider substituting spinach with kale to lower the potassium content. To learn more about how to cook with herbs and spices, check out our blog post.