10 Ways To Use Thyme In The Kitchen
Thyme is one of my go-to herbs that I always keep on hand.
Its earthy, woodsy, slightly minty flavor pairs well with many dishes.
If you've never cooked with fresh or dried thyme before, here are ten delicious ways to use it:
- Roast whole chicken or chicken pieces: Thyme brings out the chicken flavor. Scatter some sprigs and garlic inside the cavity with a lemon before roasting.
- Saute vegetables: Fresh thyme adds a beautiful flavor layer to sauteed veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, onions, and carrots. Toss chopped thyme in during the last few minutes.
- Soups and stews: Add a few sprigs right into the simmering pot for a more robust, herby broth. Just remove it before serving.
- Pasta sauce: The brightness of thyme balances more decadent tomato sauces beautifully. Stir in chopped leaves just before tossing with pasta.
- Salad dressings: Whisk dried or chopped fresh thyme into lemon vinaigrettes and herby salad dressings.
- Roast potatoes or root vegetables: Alongside rosemary, thyme shines when roasting potatoes, parsnips, carrots, and onions.
- Marinades for meats: Thyme brings a signature flavor to Greek and Mediterranean-inspired lamb, beef, or chicken marinades.
- Baked goods: dried thyme works nicely in savory scone dough, shortbread cookies, bread rolls, and biscuits.
- Compound butter: Blend fresh thyme into softened butter for an easy flavor burst on bread, cooked vegetables, and more.
- Herbal teas: Steep fresh thyme with mint and lemon for a refreshing caffeine-free tea. Delicious hot or iced!