With over 350 species available thyme is one of the most common and popular cooking herbs. The low-growing plants are grown world-wide and can be used fresh or dried. Thyme is a common herb for cooking with poultry as well as other meats. Classic dishes include coq a vin, osso bucco.
Fresh thyme can typically be found in the produce section of your well-stocked grocery store. You can also buy small plants from the nursery or farmer's market and easily grow it in pots or in the ground in a sunny location.
If you don't have thyme, you can substitute: 1 teaspoon dried thyme for 1 tablespoon fresh thyme OR equal amounts of marjoram Or equal amounts of oregano Or equal amounts of savory OR use 1/3 to 1/2 bay leaf per teaspoon thyme
Dried thyme is very aromatic and is a reasonable substitute for fresh. To maintain freshness replace your dried thyme at least every 6 months.