Does Anybody Really Know What Thyme It Is?
With the possible exception of bay leaves, thyme is probably the most popular herb on the planet. Yes, I know parsley is an herb. I like parsley fine, but don’t long for a parsley infused stew or roast.
Thyme has the unfortunate latin name Thymus Vulgaris, and, like many other herbs, is in the mint family. Common terms for thyme are English thyme, garden thyme, common thyme or thyme. It is an impressive ground covering, offers a pleasant aroma and has pretty flowers or purple or white.
One of the interesting features is variation of how the stems grow and the ease, or not, of removing the small leaves from the stems. I’ve purchased thyme in which each stem was only that, and the leaves came off very easily. Then there have been times when a stem has a dozen or more branched from it and the leaves do not come off those branches well, for the branches are so fragile. Fragile branches are a frustration when seeking only the leaves, but the good news is they are edible and choppable. The woody, almost stick, stems do offer flavor and are good wrapped in a coffee filter to flavor stocks or soups, but cannot be eaten.
As flavor goes, the whole plant has thyme flavor. As palatability goes, the leave are far easier and more pleasant to eat than the sticks.