Thyme: Little-Explored Herb Comes Into Its Own

HUNT VALLEY, Md. – Spring is in the air and it’s time to rejuvenate the flavors of the season with the little-explored herb that’s sprouting up in kitchens everywhere – thyme. Its flavor profile, characterized as minty and green, emulates the spirit of spring, and makes thyme an essential complement to the season’s most popular foods such as seafood, asparagus, new potatoes, mushrooms, baby greens and lemons.

Thyme is a favorite of chefs and home cooks alike, and its popularity is on the rise. Sales of thyme have increased by 24 percent over the last three years.* McCormick, the flavor expert, credits the expanding influence of Middle Eastern, Mediterranean and Caribbean cuisines as one factor contributing to this significant increase. Thyme is a key ingredient in the Middle Eastern spice blend, za’atar, as well as bouquet garni, Herbes de Provence and Jamaican Jerk seasoning. Another reason for thyme’s growing importance is it’s compatibility with foods throughout the entire menu, even fresh fruit and desserts.

Flourishing best in the Mediterranean region, thyme is cultivated in Spain and France. French thyme is considered the highest quality, but limited quantities are available. The thyme plant is a small perennial in the mint family that grows about eighteen inches tall with very small leaves, about ¼-inch long. Thyme’s origin dates back to Ancient Greece where it symbolized courage. Roman soldiers bathed in water infused with thyme to gain vigor, courage and strength. In the Middle Ages, ladies embroidered a sprig of thyme on the scarves of knights for bravery.

Discover the flavor and versatility of thyme this season by creating these simple recipes. Spring Thyme Salmon is enhanced with a delicate marinade that is quick and easy to make. The salmon fillet makes a beautiful presentation served whole with its pink color, flecked with aromatic thyme.

In Chicken with Asparagus, Mushrooms and Thyme, a light cream sauce creates a refreshing herbal flavor perfect for classic spring vegetables. Taste thyme at its best with Creamy Thyme Potato Gratin. Here, layers of potatoes combine with a savory sauce, and are topped with crunchy Parmesan breadcrumbs.

For a twist on the ordinary, try Lemon Thyme Bars. This creation makes a satisfying and sweet dessert with a subtle refreshing aftertaste. The slightly minty flavor of thyme paired with ginger provides a natural highlight to this citrus dessert.

For more ideas on cooking with thyme, visit www.mccormick.com or call 1-800-MEAL-TIP (1-800-632-5847).

With an extensive network of researchers, trend experts, chefs, home economists, food technologists, and sensory analysts, McCormick & Company, Inc. keeps its finger on the pulse of flavor. McCormick was founded in 1889 in Baltimore, Maryland, and today is the largest spice company in the world. McCormick sources only the finest ingredients from around the globe to bring the highest quality flavors to consumers.