If you’re like me, you might be wondering what to do with all the fresh thyme that’s been growing in your herb garden. Well, wonder no more! You can freeze thyme to use later in recipes. Keep reading for instructions on how to do it.
Quick Answer
Yes. The impact on taste will be minimal and the impact on texture will also be minimal. It will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
Can You Freeze Fresh Thyme?
Can you freeze fresh thyme? The answer is yes – and it will have a minimal impact on the taste of the herb, though the texture may be slightly affected. Thyme will last in the freezer for up to three months.
How To Freeze Fresh Thyme?
1. Gather a bunch of fresh thyme and remove any dead or damaged leaves.
2. Rinse the thyme leaves and gently pat them dry with a paper towel.
3. Bundle the thyme together by folding the leaves over on themselves several times, then twist the stem to secure them in place.
4. Cut a small hole in the top of a zipper-lock bag and insert the twisted bunch of thyme, being careful not to include the stem.
5. Remove all of the air from the bag and seal it tightly shut.
6. Place the bag in your freezer and freeze for at least 2 hours, or overnight is best!
7. When you’re ready
Precautions to Take When Freezing Fresh Thyme
When freezing fresh thyme, there are some important steps to take in order to preserve its flavor and quality. First, prep the thyme by removing any leaves from the stem. Discard any discolored or damaged leaves. Then, place the leaves in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 2-3 hours. Once frozen, transfer the leaves to a plastic freezer bag or airtight container and store in the freezer. When ready to use, remove only what you need and let the rest thaw in the fridge.
How To Thaw Frozen Fresh Thyme
To thaw previously frozen Fresh Thyme for consumption now, simply follow these steps:
1. Remove the frozen thyme from its packaging.
2. Place the thyme in a bowl of warm water.
3. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, or until thawed.
4. Drain any excess water and enjoy!
How Long Does Fresh Thyme Last (Stays Fresh) Outside at Room Temperature?
It can last for about a week outside of the fridge, but it’s best to store it in the fridge if you want it to last longer.
Fresh thyme is a delicate herb and doesn’t last very long when it’s not refrigerated. The leaves will start to dry out and get brown spots after a few days. If you want to store fresh thyme for a longer period of time, put it in a zip-lock baggie and freeze it. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months that way.
How Long Does Fresh Thyme Last (Stays Fresh) in the Fridge?
The general rule of thumb is that fresh thyme will last approximately two weeks in the refrigerator. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the shelf life of fresh thyme can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the temperature of your fridge and how closely the herb is stored to other foods.
It’s always best to use your senses when determining whether or not a food is still safe to eat. If the thyme looks wilted or browned, it’s probably best to discard it. Similarly, if you smell anything off about the herb, then it’s probably time to toss it.
How To Use Up Extra/Leftover Fresh Thyme?
Ideas, list:
-sprinkle over cooked vegetables or pasta;
-add to soups, stews, and sauces;
-mix with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic to make a simple dressing;
-put fresh thyme in a jar of water on the windowsill to grow;
-dry the leaves and use them in recipes that call for dried thyme.
