Chopped thyme from Crete

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How to cook with Cretan thyme?

Add it to marinades for meats and fish, or incorporate it into soups, stews, and sauces for added depth of flavor. It pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, pasta dishes, and cheese-based recipes.

Recipe ideas for cooking with Cretan thyme

• - Roast leg of lamb with thyme: Prepare a leg of lamb by coating it with a mixture of Cretan thyme, crushed garlic, lemon zest, olive oil, and salt. Let it marinate for several hours to absorb the flavors, then slowly roast it in the oven;
• - Roasted potatoes with thyme: Toss quartered potatoes with olive oil, Cretan thyme, coarse salt, and pepper. Roast until they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside;
• - Thyme infusion: Infuse a teaspoon of Cretan thyme in hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, adding a spoonful of honey to sweeten. This herbal tea, with soothing and digestive properties, is ideal after a meal or for sore throats;
• - Grilled vegetables with thyme: Cut vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers, then toss them with olive oil, Cretan thyme, salt, and pepper. Grill until tender and slightly caramelized. The thyme enhances their natural flavor and adds a Mediterranean touch.

The aromas of Cretan thyme

It releases an intense aroma, both woody and spicy, with notes of pine and dry earth. Its flavor is robust and slightly peppery, with a hint of bitterness in the finish, typical of wild herbs growing in the Mediterranean climate.

Thyme harvesting

Thyme is harvested traditionally during its flowering period, usually in summer, when its essential oils are at their peak. The stems are hand-cut, taking care to preserve the roots for regrowth. Only the upper parts, rich in leaves and flowers, are picked. After harvesting, the thyme is dried in the shade in a well-ventilated area, then packaged to retain its aromas, whether sold fresh or dried. This method respects the environment and ensures optimal product quality.

This authentic, high-quality product is transported by sail on an IMOCA vessel.