Ethnic Spices: Thyme

June 19, 4:13 PMOmaha Ethnic Restaurants ExaminerMelissa Aden

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Thyme Sprig

Ethnicities that use this spice:
Jamaican, Italian, French, Egyptian, Greek, Albanian, Lebanese, Persian, Portuguese, Libyan, Spanish, Turkish, Syrian, Arab, and Caribbean

Health Benefits:
The essential oil found in thyme contains large amounts of thymol, an antiseptic and the main ingredient in Listerine mouthwash. Because of this, thyme aids those suffering from colds, cough, excessive mucous, or asthma.

It’s antibacterial properties help with athlete’s foot, calm’s nerves, aids digestion, relieves swelling of joints, and minimizes menopausal symptoms. It is also a good source of antioxidants and iron.

Overview:
Like marjoram, thyme is a perennial plant that’s part of the mint family and considered marjoram’s herbal twin. Popular for its strong flavor, it’s widely used as a basic ingredient for recipes from a wide range of ethnicities.

Also like majoram, the herb is mainly used to season meats and stews. It is used quite often with lamb, and tastes great added to egg dishes. Add the herb early in the cooking process, as it is slow to release its flavors. It blends well with other herbs like rosemary, parsley, sage, savory, and oregano. And because the leaves are so small, they often don't require chopping.

How to store it:
Fresh thyme lasts about a week in the refrigerator if wrapped in a damp paper towel and placed in a plastic bag. Like marjoram, dried thyme holds its flavor much better than other herbs, and can last up to three years if stored in an airtight container.

Dried Thyme Leaves

Where to get it:
Dried thyme is available year-round at grocery stores. With recent technological advances, fresh thyme sprigs that are specially packaged to retain freshness are also now readily available at most grocery stores.

Thyme is an easy plant to grow at home. Plant in the spring and cultivate in a hot sunny location with well drained soil. Dry your own thyme sprigs in a shadowed, cool area.

Great Thyme recipes:

Arabic Chicken with Lemon and Thyme

Blueberry Peach Fruit Salad with Thyme

Zucchini with Thyme

Watch this video to learn how to make an easy Lemon Thyme Vinaigrette.

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