Thyme and Cheese: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven

If you love cooking, you know that some ingredients create magic when paired together—the secret lies in their shared flavor compounds, which enhance each other's taste. Fresh herbs, especially thyme, are perfect for pairing with cheese. Thyme is not only rich in flavor but also packed with medicinal properties. Including thyme in your diet can help with high blood pressure, infections, and digestive issues like gas. When you combine this aromatic herb with cheese, the result is a delicious and harmonious flavor.

The Versatile Herb: Thyme

Thyme, scientifically known as Thymus vulgaris, is an herb packed with flavor and fragrance, making it a staple in many cuisines. These tiny leaves pack a punch, bursting with fragrance and taste that have made thyme a cornerstone of countless cuisines. Its essence is a delightful blend of earthiness, subtle mint, and a touch of lemon warmth.

In Mediterranean, French, and Italian cooking, thyme shines in soups, stews, and roasted vegetables, adding depth and complexity to these dishes. But thyme's reach extends far beyond Europe. In India, it's a common ingredient, used fresh or dried in soups, teas, salads, and even curries.

Why do Herbs and Cheese Make a Great Match?

Cheese and herbs are a match made in culinary heaven. Adding herbs and spices to cheese creates all kinds of interesting flavor combinations. Some spices even affect how cheese ages. The trick is to pair herbs with cheeses that have similar flavors, which makes the whole thing taste even better. 

Thyme is incredibly versatile when it comes to cheese pairings. It works beautifully with a wide range of cheeses, creating delightful and harmonious flavor combinations. So next time you're looking for the perfect cheese and herb pairing, reach for the thyme.

Simple Recipes Using Thyme and Cheese

Cheesy Thyme Pasta Sauce

This cheesy pasta dish is a favorite for its simplicity and deliciousness. It's a classic cheesy sauce that serves as a perfect base to add anything you like, making it an ideal simple pasta dish.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups milk (plus extra splash if needed)
• 1 cup shredded cheese (your choice of type)
• 8 oz (about 225 grams) cooked pasta
• Nirvana Organic thyme

Instructions:

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, then add the flour and whisk into a paste.
2. Reduce the heat to medium (or lower) and gradually add the milk in a slow stream, whisking to ensure the butter and flour mixture is well incorporated.
3. Once the sauce coats the back of a wooden spoon, add the cheese in small batches.
4. Keep the heat low when adding the cheese; it should barely be bubbling. Add a splash of milk if the sauce is too thick.
5. Add the cooked pasta along with the thyme. Let it gently bubble for 1-2 minutes.
6. Your cheesy and creamy pasta is ready to serve. This sauce can also be used with roasted vegetables and other dishes.

Thyme and Garlic Cheese Dip

This herbed cheese dip is the perfect party companion. It's simple to make and goes great with all your favorite dipping veggies, fries, and chips.

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon thyme leaves
• 1/2 clove garlic
• 1/2 teaspoon rock salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 package of farmer's cheese or cream cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream.

Instructions:

1. Blend the first four ingredients in a food processor until the garlic is finely chopped, occasionally scraping down the sides of the bowl.
2. Add the cheese and sour cream; blend well.
3. Season with more salt and pepper, if desired.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and chill for 30 minutes.

Cheese and Thyme Bread

This cheesy bread is the perfect combination of savory and comforting. It's great as a side dish, a snack, or even an appetizer. Plus, it's easy to whip up and always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon pahadi chili flakes
• 1/2 cup grated cheese
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme leaves, plus extra for top
• 3 tablespoons oil
• 1 1/4 cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 12-inch (30 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper. If you don't have a 12-inch loaf pan, split the batter into two regular loaf pans. Set aside.
2. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, pepper, and chili flakes in a large bowl. Mix well. Add the cheese, oil, and thyme leaves and mix.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil and buttermilk.
4. Make a well in the flour mixture and pour in the buttermilk mixture. Stir until it becomes a thick, sticky batter. If the batter is too dry, add more buttermilk; if too wet, add more flour.
5. Scrape the batter into the prepared tin and top with extra thyme leaves or sprigs if preferred. Bake for 45 minutes to an hour, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Leave the loaf to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool to room temperature.

Cheese Thyme Sandwich

There's something undeniably comforting about a classic cheese sandwich. Take it up a notch and create a flavor explosion with the addition of a Thyme.

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of your favorite bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or white)
• 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 2 tablespoons dried thyme leaves 
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 garlic clove, minced (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Butter one side of each slice of bread.
2. Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a cutting board.
3. Evenly distribute the grated cheese on top of these slices.
4. Sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper if desired.
5. Place the remaining bread slices on top, buttered side up, to form sandwiches.
6. Heat a large skillet or pan over medium heat.
7. Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
8. Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook for another 3-4 minutes on the other side, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.

Experiment with different types of cheese and herbs to find your favorite combination. 

Ready to experience the magic of 100% pure Himalayan thyme? 

Click here to get yours from Nirvana Organic.