As summer ends and days get cooler, we love simple herbal mixes. They bring a bit of the garden into family life. Thyme honey is the sweetest way to shift from summer into autumn - simple to make and nourishing.
You can make thyme honey with just two fresh ingredients: thyme and honey. Why Thyme? Thyme is a common herb found in many gardens and kitchens. It has long been regarded as an herb that strengthens the lungs and helps to quell a cough*. It is a tonic that can be taken on a regular basis to help support the immune system and soothe sore throats or congestion*.
This thyme honey is an easy, old-fashioned way to preserve the herb and enjoy its flavor all season long. Stir it into tea, drizzle it over oatmeal, or add a spoonful to your favorite recipes.
WHAT YOU'LL NEED
- Fresh thyme (Thymus vulgaris) sprigs
- Raw, local honey, if possible
- Glass jar and lid
- Fine mesh strainer
- Label for the jar
HOW TO MAKE IT
1. Harvest your thyme. Gather fresh thyme sprigs from your garden or choose vibrant bunches from your local market.
2. Wash and dry thoroughly. Gently rinse the thyme and allow it to dry completely. Any excess moisture can affect the infusion, so don’t rush this step.
3. Place the fresh thyme into a clean and dry jar. You can loosely fill the jar, leaving enough room for the honey to surround the herbs.
4. Cover with honey. Pour honey over the thyme until the herbs are completely submerged. Give everything a gentle stir.
5. Let it infuse. Place a small square of natural parchment paper over the top of the jar before securing the lid. Store the jar in a cool, dark cupboard and let the thyme infuse for at least one week, or up to about six weeks for a deeper herbal flavor.
6. Strain out the thyme and store the infused honey. When your thyme honey tastes just right, strain out the herbs and transfer the honey to a clean, sanitized, dry jar. Label and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
HOW TO USE IT:
- A spoonful in your morning tea.
- A drizzle over warm oatmeal.
- A spread over warm toast.
- Added to a seasonal charcuterie board.
- A little stirred into a seasonal vinaigrette.
- Or simply enjoyed by the spoonful.
Check out this video for more!
Important: Honey should never be given to children under 1 year of age.
