As a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, thyme is a
favored ingredient due to its distinctive, penetrating, powerful,
yet delicate flavor. There are hundreds of varieties of thyme
with unique flavors and aromas. Common thyme (Thymus
vulgaris) is used as a culinary herb and has a wooded stem
with paired leaves.
In fact, the wonders of thyme have been appreciated since
ancient times in the Mediterranean. In ancient Egypt, thyme was
used as an embalming agent, while the ancient Greeks burnt it as
incense. The Romans bathed in thyme and flavored cheeses and
liqueurs with it. Today, we know it as one of the great
culinary herbs. Thyme is an essential part of the
bouquet garni (French for "garnished bouquet") the
bundle of herbs usually flavor soup, stock, and various stews.
Culinary Uses of Thyme
Given the depth of thyme's flavor, it is often used to flavor
meats, soups, and salads, but it also works well in tea. The
delicacy of thyme's flavor means that it doesn't overwhelm, even as
its presence is felt. Culinary thyme can be used fresh by
taking sprigs or bunches of the plant, or it can be dried.
Taste the wonderful flavor of thyme in Lavender Mint
Herbal Water.