WHAT IS THYME?
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a fragrant herb in the mint family that originated in the Mediterranean region and has been valued for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, used thyme for a variety of purposes and regarded it as an important and useful plant. Today, it remains one of the most widely recognized herbs in the world due to its long history, pleasant aroma, and natural plant compounds that contribute to its distinctive scent.
HOW CAN YOU USE THYME?
Thyme can be used fresh, dried, or ground to add flavor to a wide variety of dishes. Its aromatic leaves pair well with vegetables, poultry, seafood, soups, stews, and roasted meats, and it is often included in herb blends and seasoning mixes. Because thyme has a strong flavor, a small amount can enhance a recipe without overpowering other ingredients. The herb can be added during cooking to infuse dishes with flavor or used as a garnish for a fresh, fragrant touch.
HOW TO GROW THYME?
Thyme is a beginner-friendly herb that grows best in a sunny location with well-drained soil. Once established, it is fairly drought-tolerant and does not need frequent watering, making it an easy choice for home gardens and containers. In fact, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings is better than keeping it constantly wet. Harvesting leaves regularly or giving the plant an occasional trim helps encourage new growth and keeps it healthy, productive, and full of flavor throughout the growing season.
RECIPE
Air Fryer Thyme
Sweet Potato Fries
Makes 4 servings
131 calories per serving
165 mg of sodium per serving
INGREDIENTS
- 1-pound sweet potatoes, peeled
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon ground thyme
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
DIRECTIONS
- Cut sweet potatoes into fry-shaped sticks, about ¼-inch thick.
- Place sweet potato sticks in a large bowl. Add olive oil, ground thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Toss until evenly coated.
- Preheat air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 minutes.
- Arrange sweet potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
- Air fry for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned around the edges and enjoy.
Visit our website for more information!
https://www.lsuagcenter.com/topics/food_health/nutrition/flavors-of-health
Program adapted by Shakera Williams, DrHSc, MPH, Associate Nutrition & Community Health Agent, LSU AgCenter Northwest Region, Document created by: Abigail McAlister, MS, RD, LDN, Nutrition Agent and NCH Regional Coordinator, LSU AgCenter Northwest Region
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