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, thyme remains one of the most widely recognized herbs in the world because of its long history, pleasant aroma and natural plant compounds that contribute to its distinctive scent.

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 require frequent watering, making it an easy choice for home gardens and containers.

Allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings is better than keeping it constantly wet. Harvesting leaves regularly or occasionally trimming the plant encourages new growth and helps keep it healthy, productive and full of flavor throughout the growing season.

How to 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
• Roasted meats
• Herb blends
• Seasoning mixes

Because thyme has a strong flavor, a small amount can enhance a recipe without overpowering the other ingredients. Add thyme during cooking to infuse a dish with flavor, or use it as a garnish for a fresh, fragrant touch.

Air Fryer Thyme Sweet Potato Fries

Makes: 4 servings
Calories: 131 per serving
Sodium: 165 milligrams 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

1. Cut the sweet potatoes into fry-shaped sticks approximately ¼-inch thick.
2. Place the sweet potato sticks in a large bowl.
3. Add the olive oil, ground thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper and salt. Toss until the sweet potatoes are evenly coated.
4. Preheat the air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit for three minutes.
5. Arrange the sweet potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook them in batches if necessary.
6. Air-fry for 15 to 18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking. Cook until the sweet potatoes are tender and lightly browned around the edges.

Use herbs and spices and less salt for great flavor and better health.

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About Flavors of Health

Who We Are

Flavors of Health is a community-focused nutrition and health program that provides classes and workshops on a variety of topics. The program empowers individuals and families to make healthy food and fitness choices and live healthful lives.

What We Do

Flavors of Health uses current science and evidence-based practices to connect Louisiana’s unique food traditions with the nutrition and health challenges facing our communities.

The program provides virtual and on-site classes, presentations, workshops and educational materials that encourage healthier food and fitness behaviors.

Signature Education Programs

• Break Up With Salt: Hypertension management
• Dining With Diabetes: Diabetes management
• Small Changes, Healthy Habits: Improving health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases
• Smart Portions: Weight management

Presentations and Workshops

Available presentation and workshop topics include:

• MyPlate and Dietary Guidelines
• Heart health
• Cooking with small appliances
• Weight management
• Chronic disease prevention
• Being physically active
• Fats, sugar and sodium
• Shopping on a budget
• Food safety
• Whole grains
• Cooking and recipe demonstrations
• Lunch-and-learn presentations
• Grocery store tours
• Mediterranean diet

For additional information, visit the Flavors of Health website.

Credits

Program adapted by: Shakera Williams, DHSc, MPH, Associate Nutrition and Community Health Agent, LSU AgCenter Northwest Region

Document created by: Abigail McAlister, MS, RD, LDN, Nutrition Agent and Nutrition and Community Health Regional Coordinator, LSU AgCenter Northwest Region

The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.