Over the years, thyme has been used for embalming, to battle the plague, to ward off poison, and as a symbol of bravery in war. Growing lemon thyme plants appear as a low gr… Compared to the common thyme, wild thyme does not lignifies as much and grows to a height of about 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 in). Loosely wrapped in a damp paper towel then stored refrigerated in a plastic bag for up to 2 weeks. Most thyme varieties are hardy in USDA zones 5-9 but tend to dislike hot, humid summers or overly wet conditions. We’re about to take a close look at how these two herbs compare in the kitchen so that you know which is right for your next recipe. It’s a hybrid of thymus vulgaris, the garden variety of thyme that most are familiar with, originating in the Mediterranean. What is your favorite use for thyme? It’s packed with antioxidants. Increase or decrease these quantities based on how much the recipe calls for. Thyme is believed to have originated from the southern Mediterranean and there are records of it being used by Knights in Roman times. Lemon Thyme's glossy green foliage can be sheared to form one of the knots in a traditional knot garden. Looking for some other easy chicken recipes for your busy week? Fresh lemon thyme and normal thyme can be handled in much the same way in the kitchen. Thymus x citriodorus 'Variegata' SKU. Even an experienced cook can have a hard time telling the difference using appearance alone. This herb has a taste and smell reminiscent of lemons. A gentle flavored herb that has minty, earthy, and floral flavor. Please let us know in the comments below. The leaves are vibrant green and delicate, making them excellent for using as a garnish. Lemon thyme can be used to replace the regular variety but we recommend using it sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish with citrus. Store dried thyme in a cool dark place like the pantry for up to three years. Fresh thyme and lemon thyme have a very similar appearance. It has a mild nutty... Cuisinevault is your online cooking companion offering loads of recipes, tips, hacks and much more. Use a plastic or glass container that seals well to ensure no moisture can get to the herbs. You may also encounter woolly thyme, creeping thyme, wild thyme, and elfin thyme—all of which are better suited for rock garden filler than culinary use. 5717. Here in San Diego, we have thyme all year. Foliage – evergreen Flowering – spring. It’s a low shrub native to the Mediterranean and a member of the mint family. A unique species of herb that resembles thyme in flavor but is distinct in origin is lemon thyme. Thyme is a versatile ingredient and may be used to make savory or sweet dishes. Like other thyme varieties, lemon thyme is often used as a seasoning for foods. Generally, there's not much to differentiate the two varieties. CHOOSING THE RIGHT GROUND COVER THYME. Mexican vs Italian oregano – how do they compare? Whether you use regular fresh thyme or lemon thyme, remember to add them at the end of cooking. Lemon Thyme Chicken is a super easy, family friendly recipe that only takes 30 minutes to make! If a lemon aroma is released when rubbing the leaves together it is lemon thyme. Culinary Thymes, like Lemon Thyme, are small which make them perfect candidates for growing in a container. Lemon thyme, oregano, rosemary, marjoram, sage, or dried basil, Thyme and lemon zest, or use oregano, rosemary, marjoram, sage, or dried basil. Be the first to review this product. Lemon thyme spreads rapidly and bears pinkish flowers in summer. Actually, I think that the difference is quite prominent, lemon thyme being much more savory. To the untrained eye they can be hard to differentiate in the garden, but the variety is easily identified by rubbing a leaf or two together. Lemon thyme has a similar appearance and taste to the regular variety, but it offers a stronger citrus aroma and taste. These substitutes have similar flavor profiles and can be used to replace fresh or dried thyme. The growth is creeping, so that the plant literally forms carpets. Once picked, the leaves will last three days refrigerated. We already know that antioxidants do the body good, and thyme tea … You’ll notice a difference immediately when you crush a few of its leaves and breath in its sweet, lemony aroma. White & red thyme essential oil. Common uses for these herbs include adding to soups, sauces, chowders, vegetables, poultry, and for flavoring stuffing. Any variety of thyme is best stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. Harvest – all year round. Use culinary thyme fresh or dried, as a garnish and to flavor vinegars, herbed butters, teas, meat dishes, salads and soups. Lemon thyme combines the earthy, woody notes of garden thyme with a lemony … The fresh thyme and lemon make this a chicken recipe you’re going to love. To save space in the fridge you could also pick the leaves and store them in a small airtight container. Variegated Lemon Thyme. Give ordinary sparkling water a spa treatment with sliced peaches, lemon, and thyme sprigs for a refreshing sip. Growing lemon thyme plants (Thymus x citriodus) are a lovely addition to an herb garden, rock garden or border or as container plants. Lemon thyme (Thymus citriodorus) is a member of the mint family. Appearance. These are the two most often used in cooking. Thymus citriodorus, the lemon thyme or citrus thyme, is a lemon-scented evergreen mat-forming perennial plant in the famly Lamiaceae.There has been a great deal of confusion over the plant's correct name and origin. What is the difference between thyme and lemon thyme? It is the Ground Cover Thymes that tend to confuse. Lemon Thyme looks like other thymes and grows like them but that is where the similarity stops. Related reading: Lemon thyme is only slightly more 'lemony'. I would use them in dishes very differently. Lemon thyme helps relax the muscles of the gastronomical tract. Thyme is a gentle flavored herb that has minty, earthy, and floral flavor notes. Thymes are a blessing and a curse. Write CSS OR LESS and hit save. If a sweet lemony smell fills the air, then it is lemon thyme. I have some lemon thyme growing outside and when crushed between your fingers gives a nice, strong lemony scent. Originally, people thought it was a hybrid of thyme and lemon, but DNA tests have proved these theories incorrect. The most common variety of thyme is the Thymus vulgaris, a flowering herb that is a member of the lamiaceae family. Fajita Vs. Taco Seasoning – Comparison Guide, 6 Clam Juice Substitutes In Food & Cocktails. Although they both contribute a minty, earthy flavor to food, lemon thyme also adds a subtle lemony taste and aroma. Both thyme and lemon thyme provide a range of useful health benefits including healing infection, alleviating respiratory complications, assisting the circulatory system and stimulating the immune system. Nate Teague is a food writer who has been working in the food industry for the past decade. The lemon-scented foliage is versatile in the kitchen and the plant itself makes a … As you might expect, the lemon thyme has a distinct lemon flavor and aroma. I like using thymes because it's easy to cultivate and complements so many things. If you’ve got no lemon thyme, then we suggest using regular time combined with lemon zest. Lemon-flavored foliage adds zest to marinades and more. They are both versatile herbs that can be used on their own as a seasoning or combined with other popular herbs like sage, marjoram, or rosemary. Switch things up with this feel-good fizzy drink made from apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, orange juice, and thyme. It is a remedy for menstrual cramps. It looks just like regular thyme, with long, thin sprigs with tiny spear-shaped green leaves. There are very few situations where their minor differences will have any impact on your dish. Before placing the herbs in a bag, loosely wrap the sprigs in a damp paper towel. With a little research and even with adverse conditions, however, there are sure to be various types of thyme plants that are suitable for growth in those areas. Colorful golden-edged green foliage is invaluable for adding color and contrast to patio containers, flowering borders and small open areas. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. If you’re tired of buying and trying over-the-counter acne medication with no good … They both have long stems covered in small green leaves that are spear shaped. When planted in the right climate, this perennial develops woody stems with evergreen leaves. What is the difference between thyme and lemon thyme? Adding to soups, sauces, chowders, vegetables, poultry, and for flavoring stuffing. Long stems covered in small green leaves that are spear shaped. Sprinkle over fish, vegetables, or heavy meat dishes to add brightness. Lemon thyme, like the common thyme, is a perennial, frost-resistant plant. Name – Thymus x citriodorus Family – Lamiaceae Type – condiment. There is more debate about lemon thyme and where it first came from. Because thyme is stimulant and has diuretic properties, it can also help with an upset stomach, chronic gastritis, bloating, flatulence, and curing indigestion. Back in 1811 it was first described as a distinct species of its own, and this appears to be correct. They are packed with Vitamin C and also offer a good source of vitamin A, vitamin E, iron, copper, manganese and fiber. Lemon thyme looks similar to common thyme but offers a distinctive lemon aroma and flavor. Try this yummy Lemon Caper Chicken recipe or this fun Dill Pickle Chicken. It is a hardy perennial that grows 2 to 5 inches tall, with narrow green leaves. Fresh lemon thyme and normal thyme can be handled in much the same way in the kitchen. I find having fresh thyme, basil, rosemary, Mexican tarragon, chives to be essential in our kitchen. Peach-Thyme Spa Water. Thyme and lemon thyme are similar herbs that can be used in a wide range of recipes, both savory and sweet. Using 3 teaspoons of leaves with one teaspoon of lemon zest should provide a good ratio. Stick with us to improve your game in the kitchen and gain knowledge not readily available on the other cooking sites. Long stems covered in small green leaves that are spear shaped. Thyme is actually a part of the mint family and is a close relative of oregano. There aren't too many and their names are fairly descriptive, like Lemon Thyme. You’re family will love them! They both have long stems covered in small green... Culinary uses. Lemon thyme, as you would expect, has a more pronounced citrus flavor and aroma so use this herb with a little more caution. The tiny flowers are a bee attractor, aiding in the pollination of surrounding plants. Its subtleness is useful in cooking as it doesn’t overwhelm the other ingredients in a dish. With some of the same earthy notes as thyme, lemon thyme has the unmistakable citrus aroma of lemon balm or lemon verbena, making it the ideal substitution for sweet recipes that you want to enhance with something more than traditional thyme. Established German Thyme plants can survive hard frosts (under 28º F). Frost-fighting plan: German Thyme is perennial in zones 5 to 9; lemon thyme, in zones 7 to 9. Although best known for partnering with rosemary, it is a versatile ingredient used to flavor meat, poultry, vegetables, and even sweet dishes. In most recipes, they can be used interchangeably. Thyme linalol has a softer and sweeter scent than the red and most of the other chemotypes that can be found, including thymol, carvacrol, etc. Even so, you can reserve English thyme for British meat preparations like roasts and mutton — it … The thyme plant is robust and hardy so it withstands harsh weather and can be transferred in and outdoors depending on the season. Lemon thyme also has a softer flavor without the bitterness that thyme will sometimes contribute to food. He writes for various cooking blogs and has a passion for making fine dining recipes accessible to the at-home cook. Culinary Thymes are pretty easy. As an herbal remedy, Thymus citridorus has anti-aging properties, promotes relaxation and eases coughing. There are approximately 300 thyme varieties. Although it was used as a food, it had many other uses. Similar to regular thyme but a stronger citrus aroma and flavor. Lemon thyme is only slightly more 'lemony'. A good container plant, lemon thyme can grow 15 inches tall and wide. Common thyme and lemon thyme are the most popular varieties used in the kitchen. Clam juice is a broth that is made from steamed clams and is commonly sold in small bottles which can be stored in the... © Copyright 2020 - Cuisinevault | All Rights Reserved. Other types of thyme that aren’t common culinary ingredients include: What is thyme? You can use the two interchangeably in the kitchen, but use conservative amounts of lemon thyme to avoid overpowering the dish. Height – 8 to 16 inches (20 to 40 cm) Exposure – full sun Soil – light, well-drained. The leaves will last two weeks when refrigerated, if left on the stem. What is the difference between lemon thyme and thyme. Why Is Coffee Served With Water In Cafés? Thyme is a popular herb that has tiny leaves which grow on the plant’s stem in clusters. White Thyme Essential Oil vs. Red Thyme Essential Oil. A window box planter or a hanging basket make lovely places to grow lemon thyme on your patio or windowsill. I have had a common thyme plant in a 5 gallon container for five years now, a Lemon thyme, and yesterday, I planted a German thyme, into a 15 gallon container. Where the two differ is in the area of scent. While some are upright plants with a shrub-like growth habit, the creeping types described here are low, with a vine-like growth habit. There is another oil that can be useful for home enthusiasts as well, T. citriodora. Lemon thyme and thyme can be used interchangeably in most recipes. It smells like a hybrid between lemon and thyme. I like using thymes because it's easy to cultivate and complements so many things. Thyme, pronounced “time”, is a member of the genus Thymus of aromatic perennial evergreen herbs. I have some lemon thyme growing outside and when crushed between your fingers gives a nice, strong lemony scent. If you’ve got no lemon thyme or thyme then use oregano, rosemary, marjoram, sage, or dried basil. The herb was thought to provide strength to armor and fight off poison, among other things. The thymus genus is a large group, all of which are perennial plants in moderate climates. It has medicinal and ornamental uses, but is most commonly used for culinary reasons and one of the most popular fresh herbs.. Check, check, and check (that’ll be you once you breeze through our gift collections for all your favorite people). CTRL + SPACE for auto-complete. This will help to extend their life. Uses. There are two popular varieties of thyme; common thyme and lemon thyme. The green form is the best for culinary use. Be careful not to overpower the dish with lemon flavor. Lemon Thyme definitely smells like lemon and tastes like lemon. Known for its beautiful rose-purple flowers that bloom in early summer, caraway thyme (Thymus herba-barona) has a mild caraway flavor. Avoid fertilizing thyme varieties as they tend to become leggy and weak. It can be used in any recipe calling for lemon juice, lemon zest or lemon flavouring. Use a frost blanket to protect newly planted seedlings from late spring frosts or prolong the fall growing season. Lemon thyme is both a cute little perennial and a fabulous herb.. Key Lemon thyme facts. Lemon thyme is similar common thyme, but offers, you guessed it, a lemony scent and flavor. Recent DNA analysis suggests that it is not a hybrid or cross, but a distinct species as it was first described in 1811. A blessing because there are so many different kinds and a curse because there are so many different kinds. Lemon thyme and common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) look almost exactly alike. Generally, there's not much to differentiate the two varieties. It’s about thyme. Lemon Thyme. There is a range of different thyme varieties but two of the most common sold in stores are regular thyme and lemon thyme. It has a wonderful fresh scent and is good for the respiratory system as well. Oka is a Canadian semi-soft cheese that was first made in 1893 in the small village of Oka, Québec. Orange-Thyme Switchel. Too much lemon can put a meal out of balance easily. Lemon thyme is one of the many varieties of thyme. But the family of thymes goes well beyond just these two examples. Prolonged heat will mute their flavor and aroma. Also, most varieties of thyme prefer full sun and well drained soil. Types of thyme plant… Those best for flavor, as well as ease of use, are the low-growing, shrubby ones known as English, French, lemon, or winter thyme. Varieties of Thyme Common thyme and lemon thyme are the varieties most often used in cooking. The same uses as regular thyme. Fresh thyme and lemon thyme have a very similar appearance. Cuisinevault is reader-supported. Lemon thyme, or Thymus citridorus, is a hardy, perennial plant that has pink or white flowers and prefers to grow in full sun. Firstly, it is important for me to stress that red and white thyme are both still derived from the same herb and are both manufactured in the same way. A popular herb grown not only for its culinary uses but for its attractive foliage, lemon thyme plants can be planted to form a ground cover or among pavers along a path or patio. English thyme and French thyme are two of the most versatile thyme varieties. Thyme is hardy to zone 5 and needs full sun. Evergreen. Zones 5-9. Credit: Marty Baldwin Varigated lemon thyme Thymus x citriodorus 'Variegata' is a beautiful edible ornamental. Proved these theories incorrect and a member of the mint family are,... Cook can have a very similar appearance check ( that’ll be you once you breeze through our gift for! Similarity stops flavor and aroma common culinary ingredients include: Variegated lemon thyme spreads and. And weak as you might expect, the creeping types described here are,... 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Maple syrup, orange juice, and for flavoring stuffing without the bitterness thyme... Savory or sweet dishes is distinct in origin is lemon thyme is both cute! Are two of the most popular fresh herbs before placing the herbs and for flavoring stuffing moisture can get the! Wide range of recipes, both savory and sweet village of oka, Québec to armor and off. The sprigs in a plastic bag for up to 2 weeks cooking blogs and has a taste and aroma Variegated... Useful for home enthusiasts as well, T. citriodora thyme on your dish softer flavor without the bitterness thyme.