French Recipes, Podcast Episodes and France Travel Tips!
A to Z of French Herbs - Thyme - Thym
The Timeless Elegance of Thyme: From Ancient Rituals to Culinary Delight
Thyme, known as "Thymus vulgaris" in botanical terms, has a rich history deeply rooted in ancient civilizations. The etymology of its name traces back to the Greek word "Thymos," meaning to fumigate, reflecting its use as incense in Ancient Greek temples.
The herb comes in various varieties, each with distinct flavors and aromas, such as lemon thyme, orange thyme, and wild thyme. Commonly used in culinary creations, Thyme belongs to the mint family and shares familial ties with Oregano.
A to Z of French Herbs - Herbes de Provence
Herbs de Provence is pronounced the same in French as it is in English really. The key difference is in the spelling. In French it’s spelt Herbes de Provence.
Herbs de Provence is a dried herb mix that is sold now all over the world due to it’s popularity in the US in the 60’s when it was featured by Julia Child in her Art of French Cooking book series in the dish Poulet Saute aux Herbes de Provence. But the first written mention of the mixture of Provencal herbs dates back to 1910, in the book La Cuisine Provençale, by Jean-Baptiste Reboul.
Spice and herb blends are not uncommon in France and around the world of course. In French cuisine you also have the previously covered in this series Bouquet Garni and the Fine Herbes blend.