Thyme is one of those superstar kitchen herbs that handles the freezer like a pro. Unlike some delicate greens, it keeps its bold aroma perfectly. Whether you freeze it on its own, as part of a custom herb blend, or tucked into oil, you’ll have that garden-fresh flavor ready to level up your cooking anytime.
How to Freeze Thyme
To lock in that signature flavor, you’ll want to preserve your thyme as soon as possible after harvesting. Start by giving the sprigs a good wash and—this is the important part—patting them completely dry. From there, you can pluck the leaves off and chop them to your liking. You can also freeze the stems whole, but keep in mind you’ll need to strip the leaves off later. You definitely don’t want to cook with the woody stems; they carry a harsh bitterness that can totally ruin a dish.
Just pop your leaves or stems into an airtight container and slide them into the freezer. They’ll stay fresh for up to a year! To keep the quality high, only take out exactly what you need for your recipe so the rest stays frozen solid. If freezing isn’t your thing, you can always dry your thyme or preserve it in vinegar or oil.
What are the Best Containers for Freezing Thyme?
You don’t need a fancy vacuum sealer for this—any container that seals tightly will do the trick. Here are a few great options for your freezer:
- Ice cube trays
- Small airtight food containers
- Freezer bags
Freezer bags are okay in a pinch, but it can be a pain to grab just a small portion. That’s why small containers or ice cube trays are my go-to. Ice cube trays are especially awesome if you want to freeze thyme in olive oil. If you’re just using water, adding a little splash helps the cubes pop out easily without disturbing the rest of your herb stash.
How to Use Frozen Thyme
Using frozen thyme is a breeze—just use it exactly like you would the fresh stuff! It’s perfect for seasoning all your favorite meals. If you made those handy herb-and-oil cubes, just toss them straight into the pan for sautéing, braising, or let them melt down for a salad dressing. They thaw out at room temperature in no time.
