Thyme for Flavor: Delicious Recipes and the Perfect Walmart Mixing Bowls
Thyme, with its delicate, earthy aroma and subtly minty flavor, is a culinary workhorse. It elevates everything from roasted vegetables to hearty stews. And what better way to explore the versatility of thyme than with a set of reliable mixing bowls? This guide will take you through some incredible thyme-infused recipes, all while highlighting the convenience and affordability of mixing bowls available at Walmart. We’ll also discuss different types of mixing bowls and how to choose the right ones for your kitchen needs.
Why Thyme? A Flavor Profile
Thyme belongs to the mint family, lending it a characteristic freshness that complements rich and savory dishes. Its flavor is complex, boasting hints of lemon, floral notes, and a subtle woodiness. Unlike some herbs that lose their flavor upon cooking, thyme retains its intensity, making it a welcome addition at any stage of the cooking process. Fresh thyme is generally preferred, but dried thyme can be used in a pinch. One teaspoon of dried thyme is equivalent to one tablespoon of fresh thyme.
Choosing the Right Mixing Bowls at Walmart
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about mixing bowls. Walmart offers a wide selection of mixing bowls to suit every budget and cooking style. Here’s what to consider:
* **Material:** Mixing bowls come in various materials, each with its pros and cons:
* **Stainless Steel:** Durable, lightweight, and non-reactive, stainless steel bowls are excellent for almost any task. They won’t absorb odors or stains and are generally dishwasher-safe. They are ideal for whipping egg whites, making doughs, and tossing salads.
* **Glass:** Glass bowls are heat-resistant and non-reactive, making them perfect for melting chocolate in the microwave or mixing acidic ingredients like tomatoes or citrus juice. Many glass bowls are also oven-safe. A clear bowl lets you see exactly how well ingredients are combined.
* **Plastic:** Plastic bowls are lightweight, affordable, and come in a variety of colors and sizes. They are suitable for general mixing tasks, but avoid using them with very hot ingredients as they can warp or leach chemicals. Choose BPA-free plastic to ensure food safety.
* **Ceramic/Earthenware:** These bowls often come in beautiful designs and can add a touch of elegance to your kitchen. They are generally heavier than other types of bowls and may not be as durable. They’re great for serving and sometimes oven-safe, but always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
* **Size:** Mixing bowls come in various sizes, typically ranging from small 1-quart bowls to large 8-quart bowls. A set of bowls in different sizes is ideal for handling everything from small batches of salad dressing to large quantities of dough. Consider the types of recipes you typically make and choose bowl sizes accordingly.
* **Features:** Some mixing bowls come with helpful features like non-slip bottoms, pour spouts, and measurement markings. Non-slip bottoms prevent the bowl from sliding around while you’re mixing, pour spouts make it easier to transfer liquids, and measurement markings eliminate the need for separate measuring cups.
* **Sets vs. Individual Bowls:** Walmart offers both mixing bowl sets and individual bowls. A set is a great value if you need multiple sizes, while individual bowls are a good choice if you only need a specific size or material.
When shopping at Walmart, look for brands like Mainstays, Better Homes & Gardens, and Pioneer Woman, which often offer good quality mixing bowls at affordable prices.
## Thyme-Infused Recipes to Try
Now, let’s get cooking! Here are some delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of thyme, using the mixing bowls you can find at Walmart.
### 1. Roasted Chicken with Thyme and Lemon
This classic recipe is simple to make but yields incredibly flavorful results. A large stainless steel mixing bowl from Walmart is perfect for prepping the chicken.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
* 1 lemon, halved
* 4 sprigs fresh thyme
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon butter, softened
* 1 onion, quartered
* 2 carrots, chopped
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Chicken:** Rinse the chicken and pat it dry with paper towels. In a large stainless steel mixing bowl (like one from Mainstays at Walmart), combine the softened butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and the zest of half the lemon. Rub this mixture all over the chicken, under the skin of the breast and thighs, and inside the cavity.
3. **Stuff the Cavity:** Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon halves and 2 sprigs of fresh thyme.
4. **Prepare the Vegetables:** In the same mixing bowl (no need to wash it!), toss the quartered onion, chopped carrots, and chopped celery with the olive oil, salt, and pepper.
5. **Roast the Chicken:** Place the vegetables in the bottom of a roasting pan. Place the chicken on top of the vegetables. Tuck the remaining 2 sprigs of thyme under the chicken.
6. **Roast:** Roast the chicken for 1 hour and 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Baste the chicken with pan juices every 20 minutes to keep it moist.
7. **Rest:** Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
8. **Serve:** Carve the chicken and serve with the roasted vegetables.
**Mixing Bowl Recommendation:** A large stainless steel mixing bowl (5-6 quart size) from Walmart is ideal for this recipe. The non-reactive surface of stainless steel ensures that the flavors of the ingredients remain pure.
### 2. Creamy Thyme and Mushroom Soup
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening. A glass mixing bowl is perfect for melting butter in the microwave for the roux.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 pound mushrooms, sliced
* 4 sprigs fresh thyme
* 4 cups chicken broth
* 1 cup heavy cream
* 2 tablespoons butter
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Sauté the Vegetables:** In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms are browned and tender, about 8-10 minutes. Add the fresh thyme sprigs.
2. **Add Broth:** Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. **Make the Roux:** In a medium glass mixing bowl (like one from Better Homes & Gardens at Walmart), melt the butter in the microwave. Whisk in the all-purpose flour until smooth. This is your roux.
4. **Thicken the Soup:** Gradually whisk the roux into the simmering soup. Continue to whisk until the soup thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. **Add Cream:** Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the thyme sprigs.
6. **Blend (Optional):** For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender to blend the soup until smooth. Be careful when blending hot liquids.
7. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately.
**Mixing Bowl Recommendation:** A medium-sized glass mixing bowl (3-4 quart size) from Walmart is perfect for melting the butter and making the roux. Glass is microwave-safe and allows you to easily see the consistency of the roux.
### 3. Thyme and Garlic Roasted Potatoes
These crispy roasted potatoes are a simple yet satisfying side dish. A plastic mixing bowl is perfect for tossing the potatoes with oil and seasonings.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
* Salt and pepper to taste
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Prepare the Potatoes:** In a large plastic mixing bowl (BPA-free from Walmart), toss the cubed potatoes with the olive oil, minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, salt, and pepper. Make sure the potatoes are evenly coated.
3. **Roast:** Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through.
4. **Serve:** Serve the roasted potatoes immediately.
**Mixing Bowl Recommendation:** A large plastic mixing bowl (4-5 quart size) from Walmart is perfect for tossing the potatoes with the oil and seasonings. The lightweight plastic makes it easy to handle the bowl while tossing.
### 4. Thyme-Infused Olive Oil
This flavorful olive oil can be used for drizzling over salads, dipping bread, or adding a touch of thyme to any dish. A small glass bowl is great for infusing the oil.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup extra virgin olive oil
* 4 sprigs fresh thyme
* 2 cloves garlic, smashed
**Instructions:**
1. **Combine Ingredients:** In a small glass mixing bowl (like one from Pioneer Woman at Walmart), combine the olive oil, fresh thyme sprigs, and smashed garlic cloves.
2. **Infuse:** Heat the mixture gently in a saucepan over low heat for about 1 hour, ensuring it doesn’t simmer. Alternatively, place the bowl in a double boiler filled with simmering water for 1 hour.
3. **Cool and Strain:** Remove from the heat and let the oil cool completely. Strain the oil through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the thyme and garlic.
4. **Store:** Pour the thyme-infused olive oil into a clean glass bottle and store in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks.
**Mixing Bowl Recommendation:** A small glass mixing bowl (1-2 quart size) from Walmart is perfect for infusing the olive oil. Glass won’t react with the oil and allows you to see the infusion process clearly.
### 5. Thyme and Cheese Scones
These savory scones are a delightful treat for breakfast or brunch. A stainless steel bowl will work perfectly for the dry ingredients.
**Ingredients:**
* 2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 tablespoon baking powder
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
* 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
* 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
* 3/4 cup milk
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a medium stainless steel mixing bowl (from Walmart), whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. **Cut in Butter:** Cut the cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. **Add Cheese and Thyme:** Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and fresh thyme leaves.
5. **Add Milk:** Gradually add the milk, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
6. **Shape and Bake:** Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Pat the dough into a 1-inch thick circle. Use a biscuit cutter or a knife to cut the dough into 8 wedges.
7. **Bake:** Place the scones on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
8. **Serve:** Serve the scones warm.
**Mixing Bowl Recommendation:** A medium-sized stainless steel mixing bowl (3-4 quart size) from Walmart is ideal for combining the dry ingredients. Stainless steel is durable and easy to clean.
## Tips for Cooking with Thyme
* **Fresh vs. Dried:** Fresh thyme has a more delicate flavor than dried thyme. Use fresh thyme whenever possible, especially in dishes where the thyme flavor is prominent. If using dried thyme, reduce the amount by half.
* **Adding Thyme to Dishes:** Add fresh thyme sprigs to soups, stews, and sauces during cooking. Remove the sprigs before serving. For roasted dishes, sprinkle thyme leaves over the food before roasting. For salads, chop the thyme leaves finely and add them to the dressing or directly to the salad.
* **Storing Thyme:** Store fresh thyme in the refrigerator wrapped in a damp paper towel. Dried thyme should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.
* **Growing Thyme:** Thyme is easy to grow in your garden or in a pot on your windowsill. This will ensure that you always have fresh thyme on hand.
## Conclusion
Thyme is a versatile herb that can add depth and complexity to a wide range of dishes. With the right mixing bowls from Walmart, you can easily prepare these delicious thyme-infused recipes and elevate your cooking. Whether you’re roasting a chicken, making soup, or baking scones, thyme is sure to be a welcome addition to your kitchen. So, head to Walmart, grab a set of mixing bowls, and get ready to experiment with the wonderful flavor of thyme!