Herb | Vegan Vegetarian Gluten Free Low Calorie

Thyme

Thymus vulgaris Allergen-Free
thyme

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Lamiaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Mediterranean
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Thyme plant leaves

The Forktionary Angle

"A robust herb that gracefully bridges the gap between delicate and hearty flavors."

Definition

An aromatic herb from the mint family, known for its small leaves and distinct earthy, savory flavor.

Sensory Profile

TasteEarthy, Woody, Minty, Slightly floral
TextureDelicate (fresh leaves), Crumbly (dried)
AromaAromatic, Herbaceous, Piney
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Aromatic Compound

Contains thymol, a phenolic compound responsible for its distinct aroma and antiseptic properties.

Culinary Pairing

A core component of classic herb blends like "herbes de Provence" and "bouquet garni."

Flavor Release

Benefits from longer cooking times to fully release its essential oils.

Nutrition Facts

Per 1g (1/2 tsp dried)
Calories101 kcal
Total Fat1.7 g
Saturated Fat0.5 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol0 mg
Protein5.6 g
Total Carbohydrate24.5 g
Dietary Fiber14 g
Total Sugars1.7 g
Calcium124 mg
Iron17.5 mg
Potassium814 mg

Chef’s Secret

Add fresh thyme sprigs early in cooking to infuse deep flavor, or stir in chopped leaves at the end for a brighter note.

Substitutions

Best Match

Oregano

1:1 (fresh), 1:1 (dried)

Similar earthy and pungent notes, especially good in Italian or Mediterranean dishes.

Marjoram

1:1

Closely related, offers a milder, sweeter, and more floral version of oregano/thyme.

Savory

1:1

Both winter and summer savory have peppery, slightly piney notes, excellent with meats and beans.

Herbs de Provence

1:1

A blend that often contains thyme, offering a complementary aromatic profile.

Buying Guide

For fresh, look for bright green leaves and a strong aroma. Dried should be stored in a cool, dark place.

Flavor Pairings

Poultry Lamb Potatoes Mushrooms Tomatoes Lemon Garlic

Recipes Using Thyme

Chicken Breasts Chicken Breasts 4 Hours Or Less Oamc Freezer Make Ahead

Jamaican Me Hungry Chicken Bake

Transport your taste buds to Jamaica with this irresistible chicken bake! The aromatic blend of spices creates a mouthwatering flavor explosion that will leave you craving more. Don't be intimidated by the ingredient list – the result is well worth the effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Get ready for the most delicious aroma to fill your kitchen!

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Dinner Party Chicken Preparation Occasion

Kicked Up Oven Fried Chicken

Get ready for the crispiest, spiciest oven-fried chicken you've ever tasted! This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful chicken with a perfectly crunchy coating. Marinating the chicken in buttermilk overnight (or for at least 4 hours) is key to its tenderness and flavor. Customize the heat with your choice of hot pepper sauce – more for extra fire, or omit it entirely for a milder version. Baking the chicken on a wire rack ensures maximum crispiness. This recipe is a family favorite – you'll be making it again and again!

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Low Carb Poultry Main Dish Time To Make

2Bleu's Sweet Chicken And Gravy

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this irresistible Sweet Honey Garlic Glazed Roast Chicken and Gravy! Inspired by chef #451700's recipe #216950, this simplified American version boasts a unique flavor profile that's both comforting and sophisticated. Juicy, tender chicken with a luscious honey-garlic glaze is perfectly complemented by a rich and creamy homemade gravy. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Desserts Presentation Onions 30 Minutes Or Less

Apple Brie Quesadillas

Experience a delightful fusion of French and Mexican flavors with this Apple Brie Quesadilla recipe! Creamy brie cheese melts perfectly with crisp apples and savory spices, all nestled in warm tortillas. A unique and surprisingly easy recipe that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sophisticated appetizer. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!

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Time To Make Preparation Turkey Dietary

Apple Turkey Loaf

This healthy and flavorful Apple Turkey Loaf recipe from Sunset's Low Cholesterol Cookbook is a game-changer! Juicy ground turkey breast, tart green apples, and aromatic spices combine to create a lean and moist meatloaf that's perfect for meal prepping. Enjoy it hot or cold – it's equally delicious! A perfect weeknight dinner or make-ahead dish.

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Dietary 60 Minutes Or Less Course Pasta Rice And Grains

Asparagus Risotto With Shiitake Mushrooms

A creamy and decadent Asparagus Risotto with earthy Shiitake Mushrooms, adapted from renowned chef Michael Chiarello! This recipe boasts vibrant asparagus and savory mushrooms in a perfectly cooked Arborio rice base. Elevate your weeknight dinner with this sophisticated yet surprisingly easy dish. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Shellfish Course Shellfish Asparagus

Australian Crab And Asparagus Soup

Indulge in this luxurious yet light Australian Crab & Asparagus Soup! This one-dish wonder, inspired by global low-fat recipes, boasts delicate crab meat and tender asparagus in a creamy, subtly spiced broth. Perfect for a sophisticated weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

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Healthy 2 Healthy Rice European

Authentic Spanish Paella

Master the art of Paella with this incredible recipe! Developed over a year of experimentation, this recipe delivers an authentic Spanish Paella experience, perfect for a crowd. Cooked in an 18" paella pan over an open flame (a Weber grill is ideal!), this recipe blends succulent seafood and tender meats for a truly unforgettable flavor. While purists debate the meat and seafood combination, our experience across Spain shows this delicious mix is widely enjoyed. Easily adaptable for smaller stovetop pans – simply halve the recipe. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant and flavorful masterpiece!

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American Finger Food Cheese Main Dish

Bada Bing Betty's Tuscan Portobello Melt Grilled Cheese

This award-winning Tuscan Portobello Melt Grilled Cheese, a sensation from Betty Fraser's Top Chef 'comfort food' challenge, is a culinary masterpiece! This recipe, originally paired with recipe #193721, became a TGI Friday's menu star. The judges raved – and you will too! Imagine juicy portobellos, roasted with sweet onions and tomatoes in balsamic, nestled between perfectly grilled cheese with provolone and Monterey Jack. Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both comforting and sophisticated. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your friends.

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For 1 Or 2 North American For 1 Or 2 Southern United States

Baked Cajun Fries

Crispy, golden-brown Cajun fries baked to perfection! This recipe is incredibly versatile – use it as a base and customize the spices to your liking. Imagine rosemary and parsley instead of cayenne and cumin for a herby twist! Get ready for a flavor explosion that's both addictive and surprisingly healthy.

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Eggs Course Dietary Equipment

Baked Eggs Florentine

Indulge in this easy and delicious Baked Eggs Florentine recipe – the perfect brunch or breakfast casserole! Flaky spinach, creamy eggs, and a touch of cheese make this a crowd-pleasing dish that's ready in under an hour. Perfect for weekend mornings or a special occasion.

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Very Low Carbs Low Calorie Time To Make Dietary

Baked Fish With Mushrooms And Cream

Elevate your weeknight dinner with this decadent Baked Fish with Creamy Mushroom Sauce! Inspired by Bon Appetit, this recipe features succulent fish baked to perfection under a rich, savory mushroom sauce. Get ready for a burst of flavor in just 30 minutes!

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Onions Dietary 4 Hours Or Less Course

Baked Garlic And Onion Cream Soup

Indulge in this luxurious Baked Garlic & Onion Cream Soup! A rich and deeply flavorful soup, perfect as an elegant first course or a comforting main. Roasted garlic and onions create a depth of flavor unmatched by other cream soups. Easy to make, yet impressive enough for any occasion.

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Vegetables Vegetables Low Sodium Potatoes

Baked Herbed Potatoes

Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside! These incredibly flavorful baked potatoes are a family favorite, herbed to perfection. Get ready for the ultimate comfort food experience – your taste buds will thank you.

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Main Dish Course Equipment Main Dish

Balsamic Citrus Pork Chops

Juicy, flavorful pork chops are ready in under 30 minutes with this easy skillet recipe! Perfectly balanced sweet and tangy balsamic citrus glaze coats tender, thick-cut pork chops. A simple weeknight dinner that's impressive enough for company. This recipe works with any thickness of pork chop; adjust cooking time as needed.

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Eggs Eggs Eggs Dairy Preparation

Barbara Bush's Mushroom Quiche

Indulge in this savory Barbara Bush Mushroom Quiche recipe, a Food Network classic! This elegant and flavorful quiche features a creamy egg custard brimming with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and aromatic herbs. Perfect for brunch, a light dinner, or a special occasion, this recipe is easier to make than you think. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious and satisfying dish!

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Dietary Potatoes Dietary Easy

Barbecue Potato Kabobs

Fire up the grill for these irresistible BBQ Potato Kabobs! Juicy pineapple, sweet onions, and crisp green peppers perfectly complement perfectly seasoned potatoes in this easy summer recipe. Whether you're using canned potatoes for convenience or fresh new potatoes for a gourmet twist, these kabobs are a crowd-pleaser. Customize your seasoning blend and enjoy them on the grill or under the broiler – delicious any way you make them!

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Low In Something Equipment 4 Hours Or Less 3 Steps Or Less

Barbecue Marinade

Unlock the secret to unbelievably tender and flavorful barbecue! This mouthwatering marinade infuses your favorite meats with smoky sweetness and tangy zest, creating a barbecue experience your taste buds will crave. Perfect for ribs, chicken, or pork.

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