Herbs: Thyme

Scientific name:  Thymus vulgaris,
Lamiaceae

Aroma and flavour:  The aroma of thyme is pungent, warming, spicy and agreeable. Its flavour is similarly pungent and warming with a lingering, medicinal, mouth-freshening sharpness that comes from the presence of an important volatile oil, thymol.

Culinary uses:  Thyme is typically used in savoury dishes like braised, braaied or roasted meat, vegetables or fish, as well as in savoury baking. It can also be used to add flavour and depth to marinades, soups, stocks, spice blends, cocktail elements and teas. Used in a classic bouquet garni.

Medicinal uses:  aids digestion and help break down fatty foods. Rich in antifungal, antiseptic and antioxidant properties and makes an excellent remedy for sore throats and hangovers !