Pyramid Thyme

What is Pyramid Thyme?

Pyramid thyme is an aromatic herb that has been central to the daily lives of Egyptians for thousands of years. This plant with its distinctive pleasant scent is used every day in great celebrations and to flavor food.

Since ancient Egypt, thyme has been able to withstand changing environments and adapt to all types of climates, from severe drought to irrigation schemes. It has never lost its bewitching smell and taste. It is for these reasons that it is the Egyptian thyme that I selected among the hundreds of listed species.

David Vanille's choice: I chose the pyramid thyme for its exceptional aroma. It is sufficient on its own and that is why I offer it to you in the simplest way possible! It can of course be used in the composition of aromatic plant mixtures, but used alone, it is perfectly suited to savory or sweet cooking.

Difference with other varieties of thyme

I could have chosen another variety of thyme, one that grows on the French Mediterranean coast. But during my trip to Egypt, I was charmed by its particular smell. So it is the thyme of the Pyramids that I propose to you.

"As for the parterre, it offered a thousand designs of thyme, which plays the same role as boxwood at home; in balls, in pyramids, in embroidery, it is thyme that always frames the tribes of flowers and the sandy paths." - Events and adventures in Egypt in 1839 - Scipio Martin

The origins of the thyme of the Pyramids

The origin of thyme is rich in stories of the various peoples who use it. One of the stories of Greek mythology tells that thyme was born from the tears of the beautiful Helen of Troy. She would have cried so much because of the concern caused by the Trojan War that a shrub was born and blossomed from her tears. This plant became a symbol of courage and divinity.

The Greeks burned thyme in front of temples, in public squares and at the gates of rich houses to protect them from bad luck.

The Egyptians used it to purify and make eternal the soul of their dead. An Egyptian legend says that the nurturing goddess Hesat created the thyme of the Pyramids in order to offer this seasoning in abundance to the people of Egypt and to the Pharaohs. A belief confers it aphrodisiac powers in the making of love filters..

The Romans used it during protection rites, in medicinal preparations and in cosmetics. They are the ones who made this plant travel throughout Europe!

From the Middle Ages, thyme was used in cooking to flavor the dishes of the knights.

Benefits of thyme of the Pyramids

Thyme is widely used throughout the world as a medicinal plant. It is known for its benefits:

• Anti-infectious, in infusion, especially on respiratory and bronchial ailments
• Anti-inflammatory, used in mouthwash for dental problems
• Stimulating immunity thanks to its antiviral virtues
• Facilitates digestion and reduces bloating.

How to use Pyramid thyme?

Pyramid thyme can be used in all types of recipes. According to the tastes of each one, it can enter the composition of salted or sweetened, cold or hot recipes, in drinks, in subtle touches or in bigger quantities.

It will bring to your dishes a freshness and sweetness thanks to its taste which characterizes it so well. From the seasoning of a vinaigrette or a marinade, to the composition of a bouquet garni for your simmered dishes, through a raw use for all types of cooking, the Pyramids thyme is a tasty ally for all your culinary creations.

Our recipe ideas with Pyramid thyme

Thyme is known for its ability to season many dishes. It is often used to season grilled meats or dishes in sauce. I have chosen to give you three original recipes in which to use Egyptian thyme.

As an appetizer: savory cake

Here is my basic recipe to make a savory cake for the aperitif. It is up to you to choose which ingredients you want to add according to your taste and that of your guests.

• 200 g flour
• 200 g grated Gruyere cheese
• 3 or 4 eggs depending on size
• 50 ml olive oil
• 100 ml of milk
• 1 packet of baking powder
• Salt and pepper
• A tablespoon of David Vanilla Pyramid thyme

Salted ingredients, about 200 g: dried tomatoes, olives, chicken, ham, chorizo, tuna, salmon... according to your desires. Mix all the ingredients, put in a cake tin and bake for 25 minutes at 180 - 200 degrees.

In drink : winter infusion

Thyme has protective properties of the immune system and antiseptic. In combination with other ingredients, thyme infusion is a drink that helps fight colds for the whole family. In a saucepan of 500 to 600 ml of simmering water, infuse:

• 1 tablespoon of David Vanilla Pyramids thyme
• The juice of a lemon squeezed
• 2 tablespoons of honey

For dessert: vanilla cream with thyme

• 3 egg yolks
• 1 liter of milk
• 50 g of cornstarch
• 50g of sugar
• 1 teaspoon of David Vanille thyme
• 1 vanilla pod

Whisk the sugar and the egg yolk. Boil the milk and let the thyme and vanilla infuse. Let it cool down a little before mixing with the eggs and sugar. Cook over low heat with the cornstarch, stirring until the cream thickens. Pour into ramekins or verrines. Let cool and place in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

How to store Pyramid thyme?

The Egyptian thyme can be kept for many months, preferably protected from the light. Keep it tightly closed in its bag, in an iron or earthenware pot.