I find it so interesting to find real health benefits in foods we commonly use already. Granted, thyme is not going to cure your diabetes, but it IS good for you and will add flavor to your diabetic friendly dishes. Full credit for this article goes to the American Diabetes Association where I found it posted in their Diabetes Food Hub. Enjoy!
It’s Time to Talk About Thyme
by Emily Weeks, RDN, LD
It’s time to talk about the benefits of thyme and why you
should be using this aromatic herb in your diabetes-friendly cooking. Beyond
its enticing fragrance, thyme offers a wealth of health benefits, making it a
wonderful addition to meals for individuals managing diabetes. In this article,
we'll delve into the nutritional benefits of thyme, how to use and store it,
and offer a few tasty diabetes-friendly recipes that you can try tonight!
About Thyme
Thyme is an herb from the mint family and a staple
ingredient in kitchens around the world—with small, fragrant leaves that are
typically green-gray in color. It thrives in sunny and dry conditions and can
be grown both outdoors in gardens and indoors in pots.
How to Pick and Store Thyme
When shopping for thyme, look for fresh, vibrant sprigs with
intact leaves and a strong smell. To maximize thyme's shelf life, wrap fresh
sprigs in a damp paper towel and store them in a plastic bag in the
refrigerator. This helps maintain the herb's moisture and aroma for up to a
week.
Alternatively, you can dry thyme by hanging it in a well-ventilated area. Once
dried, store it in an airtight container away from direct sunlight, where it
can retain its flavor and fragrance for several months. You can also find dried
thyme in spice aisles, which is a convenient option for year-round use.
The Nutritional Benefits of Thyme
Since it is typically used in small amounts to garnish and
add flavor to dishes, thyme can contribute small amounts of certain essential
nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium to your eating
plan.
Thyme contains several antioxidants, including thymol and rosmarinic acid.
These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
properties.
How to Use Thyme in Your Cooking
Thyme offers a pleasant, slightly sweet, earthy taste with
subtle hints of mint and lemon that enhances the flavor of dishes. It pairs
well with various meats, including poultry, beef, lamb, and fish. Sprinkle some
fresh or dried thyme leaves over roasted vegetables or incorporate them into
marinades, soups, stews, and sauces for a delightful aromatic touch. A serving
of thyme is two tablespoons when fresh or one teaspoon when dried.
Thyme also pairs well with other herbs such as rosemary, oregano, and parsley.
Mix and match these herbs to boost the flavor of your dishes. Whether you're
preparing a hearty roast, a fragrant soup, or a light salad, thyme can be your
trusted companion in the kitchen to add depth and aroma to your dishes.
Diabetes-friendly recipes featuring thyme:
This tasty Lemon Thyme Shrimp Stir-Fry uses diabetes-friendly ingredients like cauliflower rice and fresh herbs to ensure your dinner won’t spike your blood glucose (blood sugar) levels.
Roasted Pork Tenderloin with Thyme and Balsamic Roasted Grapes
Infused with aromatic thyme and garlic marinade, the tender pork is a flavor-packed masterpiece.
Have a great week, everyone, and thank you for your support!
Blessed be… and happy cooking!
Chef Michael R