How To Use Orange Thyme

A delicious and fragrant herb, orange thyme is a fantastic way to add a citrusy twist to your dishes and drinks. While often overlooked in favour of more common thyme varieties, this herb brings a unique blend of earthy and citrus flavours that can elevate both sweet and savoury recipes. Whether you’re growing it yourself or picking some up from a specialist supplier, orange thyme has so much more to offer than just being a pretty garnish. Let’s explore how to grow, plant, and use orange thyme in your kitchen and beyond.

What is Orange Thyme?

Orange thyme (Orangelo) is a variety of thyme that has a distinctive citrus aroma and a hint of orange flavour. It is a perennial herb that belongs to the mint family and shares the same hardiness and resilience as common thyme. The leaves are small, fragrant, and packed with essential oils that make it a standout addition to food and drinks.

Not only is orange thyme a culinary delight, but it also has medicinal properties, with traditional uses ranging from digestive support to soothing colds. With its compact growth habit, this herb is perfect for container gardening, herb beds, and even ground cover.

Is Orange Thyme Easy to Grow?

Yes! Orange thyme is just as easy to grow as its more common relatives. It thrives in well-drained soil and enjoys plenty of sunlight. Being drought-tolerant, it doesn’t require much watering once established, making it a low-maintenance choice for herb gardens. You can grow it from seeds or cuttings, and it pairs beautifully with other Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary and oregano.

Where to Plant Orange Thyme

• In Containers: If you have limited garden space, orange thyme grows well in pots and containers. Just make sure the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot.
• In Garden Beds: Planting it in an herb or vegetable garden is an excellent way to attract pollinators while keeping it easily accessible for cooking.
• As Ground Cover: Orange thyme’s creeping habit makes it an ideal ground cover for pathways or rock gardens, releasing its wonderful scent when stepped on.

Using Orange Thyme in Cocktails

One of the most exciting ways to use orange thyme is in cocktails. Its citrusy and herbal notes make it a fantastic addition to a variety of drinks. Here are some ways to incorporate it:

Make Orange Thyme Syrup

A simple way to infuse drinks with orange thyme is by making an herb-infused syrup.

• Combine equal parts sugar and water in a pan.
• Add a handful of fresh orange thyme sprigs.
• Simmer gently for 5 minutes, then let it cool before straining.
• Use this syrup in cocktails like gin and tonics, margaritas, or whiskey sours.

Decorate Cocktail Glasses

For an elegant touch, garnish your cocktails with fresh sprigs of orange thyme. The fragrant leaves enhance the aroma of the drink and add a pop of colour.

Freeze in Ice

Freezing orange thyme in ice cubes makes for a beautiful and flavourful addition to cocktails. Simply place a few small sprigs in an ice cube tray, fill with water, and freeze.

Use as Main Flavour

Orange thyme works well as a primary flavour in herbal cocktails. Try muddling it with citrus fruits for a fresh and aromatic twist on classic drinks.

Using Orange Thyme in Cooking

Beyond cocktails, orange thyme brings depth to a range of dishes, from meats to baked goods.

Thyme with Roasted Vegetables

Tossing roasted vegetables with orange thyme enhances their natural sweetness.

• Works well with carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips.
• Add it towards the end of roasting to preserve its fresh flavour.

 Orange Thyme for Stews

For a citrusy twist, throw a few sprigs of orange thyme into slow-cooked stews.

• Perfect for lamb or beef dishes.
• Combines well with garlic, onions, and red wine.

Orange Thyme Jam

For something unique, try making orange thyme jam.

• Combine fresh orange thyme with citrus fruits like oranges or apricots.
• The herb’s subtle citrus notes balance the sweetness of the fruit.

Orange Thyme in Baking

Adding orange thyme to baked goods gives them an unexpected depth of flavour.

• Use in shortbread or scones for a herby twist.
• Infuse in honey and drizzle over cakes for a fragrant finish.

Buy Your Orange Thyme Seeds from She Grows Veg

Ready to start growing your own orange thyme? Get high-quality orange thyme seeds from She Grows Veg and bring the magic of this fragrant herb to your garden and kitchen. Whether you’re looking to add it to your cocktail creations, savory dishes, or baked treats, orange thyme is a versatile and rewarding herb to grow and use!