Fresh thyme leaves

Fresh thyme leaves are the small, aromatic green leaves of Thymus vulgaris, a perennial plant native to the Mediterranean region. This ingredient is highly valued in cooking for its slightly spicy, earthy flavor with hints reminiscent of pine and lemon.

Fresh thyme is widely used in recipes for meats, stews, soups, sauces, and marinades, providing a distinctive aroma and flavor that enhances dishes without overpowering the other ingredients.

Among its properties, thyme is known to be an excellent source of antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds, which, in addition to benefiting health, can help preserve food. It also contains vitamins such as A and C, as well as minerals like iron and manganese.

In the context of Latin American cuisine, fresh thyme leaves may be found under synonyms such as thyme or sometimes simply referred to as thyme herb. Although there are no very different names in the various regions, it is common to specify "fresh" to distinguish it from dried thyme.