Thyme is often referred to as a companion for other herbs such as parsley and summer savory. The bundled blend of parsley, bay leaf, and thyme used in soups and stews is called bouquet garni. Thyme also lends support to Herbes de Provence, which is a more extensive blend used in French cooking. Many Mediterranean dishes include this base herb.
It is a tiny-leafed plant in the mint family that is aromatic and has a surprisingly nice bite. Thyme retains more of its natural taste in dried form, but fresh is always better for flavoring foods.
Long before thyme became a flavoring ingredient, it was a symbol of courage for the Romans. Even earlier, however, the Egyptians used it to mummify the dead.
There are many species and most have similar characteristics, but definite differences in aromas. The most familiar names include lemon, caraway, garden, French, and English.
Keep dried thyme on a cool, dark shelf away from sunlight. It will be good up to a year.
Try one of our favorite thyme recipes:
Beans, beef, cheese, cottage cheese, pork, poultry, soups, stews, vegetables, wild game
View BigOven's thyme recipes