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Lemon Thyme

Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) is a versatile aromatic herb with a prominent citrusy flavor, belonging to the Lamiaceae family. As a popular culinary and ornamental ingredient, it's characterized by its small, bright green leaves and tiny, lavender flowers that grow on petite, woody stems. Native to the Mediterranean, this herbaceous perennial offers a delightful touch of lemon when fresh or dried, making it a favored choice among home cooks and gardeners alike. Lemon thyme is predominantly used in various dishes to enhance flavor, such as fish, chicken, marinades, and roasted vegetables. The bright lemon essence pairs well with other Mediterranean herbs, like rosemary and oregano, which can elevate simple dishes to a more sophisticated level. Its fresh and zesty aroma also makes it an attractive addition to hot teas, infused oils, and potpourris, encompassing applications beyond the kitchen.
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lemon thyme
Lemon Thyme FAQ
Lemon thyme is an underappreciated herb that could bring about a game-changing flavor in your kitchen. Its subtle citrusy undertone is the secret to making dishes pop without overcomplicating the recipe. However, this ingredient is often misused, mostly because people either overdo it or don’t incorporate it properly into their dishes. One common mistake is to add too much lemon thyme, thinking it will intensify the citrus flavor. However, because of its strong profile, it can easily overpower other ingredients. It is best to start with small amounts, and slowly add more if needed. Another common mistake is not giving it enough time to infuse. Just like regular thyme, lemon thyme releases its flavors gradually. Therefore, it is usually better to add it at the beginning of the cooking process. To get the most out of lemon thyme, consider using it fresh. Dried lemon thyme can be a good substitute, but nothing compares to the sharp and fresh flavor of the herb right off the stem. A little-known trick is to use the whole sprigs and then remove them before serving. This way, your dish gets all the flavor, without any leaf bits in it.
Can I use lemon thyme in place of regular thyme?
Should lemon thyme be added at the beginning or end of the cooking process?
Can I eat the leaves of lemon thyme?
How can I use dried lemon thyme?
What dishes does lemon thyme pair well with?
Can lemon thyme be used in desserts?
Is it possible to grow lemon thyme at home?
Can lemon thyme be used to make tea?
What does lemon thyme taste like?
Can I use lemon thyme in a cocktail?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does lemon thyme expire?
Lemon Thyme doesn’t have a specific expiration date, but its quality starts to decrease after it's harvested or bought. If you've bought pre-packaged Lemon Thyme from the grocery store, try to use it within a week for the best flavor and quality. Once it's been cut or harvested, it typically lasts 10-14 days in the fridge if stored correctly. As a dried herb, Lemon Thyme can retain its flavor for 1-3 years. If frozen properly, it can last up to 6 months
How do you tell if lemon thyme is bad?
Fresh Lemon Thyme is considered bad when it starts to wilt and darken in color. Moreover, if you notice a shriveled, moldy or slimy appearance, it's time to discard it. Dried Lemon Thyme can lose its scent and flavor over time, which can be checked by crushing a few leaves and taking a sniff. If it doesn't smell as strong as when you first got it, the flavor is likely gone. Also, if its color has faded, it might be a sign that the herb has expired.
Tips for storing lemon thyme to extend shelf life
• Keep fresh Lemon Thyme in the refrigerator in a loosely wrapped plastic bag. This keeps the moisture and aroma intact. • To maintain the freshest flavor, consider storing your Lemon Thyme in a glass of water, just like a bouquet of flowers, and change the water every few days. • For long-term storage, freeze Lemon Thyme in an airtight container. To avoid it getting freezer burnt, you can chop it and mix it with water or olive oil, and then freeze it in an ice cube tray. • Dried Lemon Thyme should be kept in a cool, dark place in an airtight container. This maximizes its shelf life and maintains its robust flavor.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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