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The Many Uses of Thyme in the Kitchen
Most recipes call for herbs or seasonings to complement the flavor of the food and French cooking recipes are no exception. Thyme is an example of a very popular herb. It adds a tangy, earthy flavor to your dishes and if you have used it before you will know what a difference, it makes. Knowing a bit more about thyme can help you to decide which French recipes would benefit from this tasty herb.
While some people simply buy thyme dried from the store, you can also purchase and grow it fresh. Remember that when cooking with fresh thyme that on a fresh sprig is about equal in potency to one-half a teaspoon of dried thyme.
You need to crush the thyme leaves before adding dried thyme to your food, to ensure the thyme taste will be evenly distributed. Dried thyme should be kept in a dark, cool place in an airtight container. If you keep it in this way, it should last up to 6 months. When it is past its best, the thyme will begin to smell musty.
It is straightforward to grow your own thyme. If you do not have much space, you can grow it in a window box. Thyme goes so well with many French cooking recipes that it is very useful to have fresh thyme to hand. When the thyme is ready, you can dry it by hanging it upside down for several days until the leaves are crispy. You might also decide to use it fresh in your French cooking; in which case just use the leaves because the stems are woody. You can either pinch the leaves off or drag the plant through the tines of a fork.
There are many different recipes featuring thyme. A lot of French cooking recipes use thyme but it is also very good when added to a mushroom stroganoff. This is because mushrooms are earthy and so is thyme. Have a look through some French dessert recipes to find one, which will be delicious after your mushroom stroganoff. There are plenty of French dessert recipes to choose from but something soft and fruity like Pears Belle Helene or homemade vanilla ice cream will go well.
You will also find out that thyme goes well with any dish that calls for mustard. Honey mustard chicken is a dish that can be almost childishly sweet until you add some thyme to help it grow up a little.
If you make your salad dressings, particularly if you enjoy vinaigrettes of any flavor, thyme can be used to add some spice and texture to it. If you are planning a light lunch or appetizers, consider the fact that thyme goes quite well with a variety of soft, pale cheeses. The sweetness of the cheese will really bring out the sharp taste of the thyme, and you can combine them to taste.
The sky is the limit when it comes to finding uses for thyme. It is used in many French cooking recipes, so why not try a basic French recipe first, followed by a French dessert recipe. The impact of a sprinkle of thyme in your meal will be sure to pleasantly tantalize your taste buds.
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