Thyme: Versatile Seasoning and Delicious Recipes

Thyme is an herb that belongs to the mint family and is known for its complex flavor profile, which includes woody, minty, floral, earthy, and citrusy notes with a nuanced lemony aftertaste. Its versatility in culinary applications makes it a staple in many kitchens around the world.

Popular Uses of Thyme in Cooking

Thyme is commonly used in a wide variety of dishes, from meat stews and braises to fish with olives or capers, and even roasted root vegetables. Here are some of the favorite ways to use thyme:

Meat Dishes

Any red meat dish that is stewed or braised is a great place to add thyme. This includes chicken, lamb, goat, and fish. Thyme also complements mushroom-based dishes, such as wild mushroom ragouts or meat substitutes in bolognese sauces.

Cajun/Creole and Mediterranean Dishes

Many savory dishes in Cajun, Creole, and Mediterranean cuisines benefit greatly from fresh thyme. This includes Spanish, Italian, Greek, Turkish, Lebanese, Syrian, Israeli, Jordanian, Saudi, Egyptian, Libyan, Algerian, Moroccan, Mexican, Portuguese, and certain Southeast Asian dishes. In many cultures, thyme is often used alongside oregano, Mexican oregano, and cilantro.

Fish Dishes

Thyme can lend a wonderful flavor to any fish that includes olives or capers. It enhances the taste of fish with these accoutrements, making it a perfect addition to seafood recipes like shrimp, scallops, oysters, fish, clams, mussels, crawfish, langoustinos, and even lobster and crab.

Vegetables and Root Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, especially autumn and root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, turnips, rutabagas, potatoes, and others, can be seasoned with thyme to enhance their natural flavors.

Soups, Stews, and Sauces

Thyme is also excellent in soups, stews, sauces, and stocks/broths. It enriches the flavors of these dishes, adding depth and nuance. Common dishes include gumbo and various pasta dishes, pizza sauces, and savory doughs and batters.

In Savory Pastries and Baked Goods

Thyme can be used in savory omelets, quiches, fritatas, and crepes. It adds a unique flavor profile to these dishes, making them more complex and flavorful.

Thyme in Gumbo

One of my very favorite things to use with fresh thyme is gumbo. Thyme is simply phenomenal in gumbo, whether it is made with game or domesticated animals, seafood, or any combination of these. Its earthy and woody notes complement the flavors in gumbo exceptionally well.

Using Fresh Thyme vs. Dried Thyme

When using fresh herbs, including thyme, it's important to remember that dried herbs are generally 3 times more pungent and flavorful than fresh herbs. This is because the drying process concentrates the aroma and flavor significantly. Therefore, when a recipe calls for dried thyme and you only have fresh thyme available, you should use 3 times the amount. Conversely, if a recipe calls for fresh thyme and you only have dried thyme, use one-third of the required amount. For instance, if a recipe calls for a tablespoon of fresh thyme, you should use about 3 teaspoons of dried thyme.