The modest magician that transforms the mundane into Mediterranean magic.
Tiny, fragrant leaves with a warm, earthy aroma; thyme provides a deep, savory flavor that enhances countless dishes. This herb is integral to Mediterranean, French, and Middle Eastern cuisines, known for its versatility.
Where it comes from
Thyme has been valued since ancient times, used in both culinary and medicinal applications, often associated with strength and courage in folklore.
In the kitchen
Thyme is typically used fresh or dried in stews, roasts, and marinades, adding a complex depth that elevates both meat and vegetable dishes.
Nutrition (per 100g)
101kcalCal
9.1gProtein
1.7gFat
24.5gCarbs
14.0gFiber
Values are AI-estimated, not from a laboratory database
Pairs well with
Onion
Sauté onions with thyme on medium heat. The herb's earthy notes lift the onion's sweetness. Add thyme early; it needs time to infuse.
Lemon
Add thyme and lemon zest at the end of roasting. The citrus lifts thyme's earthiness, brightening the whole dish.
Chicken
Stuff thyme under the chicken skin before roasting. The heat releases its oils, infusing the meat with savory depth.
Pork
Roast with thyme sprigs. The herb's earthy notes lift pork's richness, especially when basted mid-cook.
Mushroom
Sauté mushrooms with thyme on medium heat. The earthy notes of thyme lift the umami depth of mushrooms. Add thyme early to infuse flavor.
Shallot
Sauté shallots with thyme on low heat. The herb's earthiness rounds out the shallot's sweetness.
White Wine
Add thyme to simmering wine for poultry. Herbaceous notes deepen as wine reduces.
Red Wine
Add thyme in the last simmer. Its herbal notes lift the wine's depth, adding a fragrant, woody finish.
Broth
Simmer thyme with broth. Its earthy aroma infuses gently, lifting the savory depth without overpowering.
Yam
Roast yams with thyme. The herb's earthy notes complement the yam's richness, adding depth and a savory edge.
Leek
Add thyme while sautéing. Its herbal notes meld with the leeks, adding depth without overpowering.
Turnip
Roast turnips with thyme. The herb's earthy notes lift the turnip's mild sweetness. Add halfway to avoid bitterness.
Pork Shoulder
Add thyme early in the braise. Its earthy notes infuse the pork as it tenderizes, lifting the savory depth.
chicken stock
Simmer together, thyme's earthy notes lift the stock's savory base. Add early, let it infuse gently.
scotch bonnet pepper
Add thyme early in the cooking. Its earthy notes ground the pepper's heat, making it more aromatic and layered.
redskin onion
Add thyme to onions as they caramelize. The herb's earthy notes lift the sweetness, creating a fragrant base.
Turbot
Roast with thyme; its earthy aroma infuses the fish gently, complementing turbot's natural flavors.
Chanterelle
Sauté with a sprig of thyme. The herb's earthy notes lift the chanterelle's subtle sweetness without overpowering.
Beef Cheek
Add thyme during the braise. Its earthy aroma lifts the beef, weaving through the sauce.
Chicken Liver
Add thyme early in cooking. Its earthy aroma lifts the liver, adding a fragrant note that complements its richness.
Whole Chicken
Scatter over the chicken before roasting. Thyme's earthy notes deepen as they mingle with the roasting juices.
Duck Breast
Add thyme to the pan while searing. Its earthy aroma infuses the duck, lifting its savory depth.
Duck Leg
Sprinkle fresh thyme before roasting. Its earthy aroma infuses the duck, enhancing the savory notes. Don't skimp on the basting.
Duck Fat
Add in the last 10 minutes of roasting. Thyme's earthy notes lift the duck fat's richness, adding aromatic warmth.
swede
Add thyme while roasting. Its woodsy aroma complements swede's sweetness, creating a fragrant harmony.
Beef Chunks
Tie in a bundle, simmer with beef. Thyme's earthy notes weave into the broth, adding warmth and complexity.
fish or meat
Thyme's earthy notes weave through the meat, especially when roasted. Add early to infuse deeply.
callaloo
Add sprigs early in cooking. Thyme's herbal notes infuse deeply, complementing callaloo's green freshness.
beef broth
Simmer with thyme sprigs. Its earthy notes deepen the broth's savory warmth, infusing subtle herbal tones.
beef stock
Simmer together for an hour. Thyme's earthy notes weave through the stock, lifting its depth without overpowering.
fish or chicken
Tuck sprigs into roasting pan. Thyme's earthy notes seep into meat, especially with slow heat.
beef or pork
Add thyme during slow braising. It infuses warmth and earthiness into the meat.
stock
Simmer gently with stock. Thyme's subtle earthiness lifts the broth, adding depth without overpowering.
