Tincture of Thyme

Oh the penetrating fragrance of thyme...

I procured a robust bunch of thyme from my friend's potted herb garden recently.  What better way to capture it's refreshing floral aroma than in a summer sweet - ice cream!  Besides, it would be the perfect opportunity to break in my new Cuisinart ice cream maker.   

Wikipedia says the essential oil of thyme, thymol, a natural antiseptic, is the main active ingredient in Listerine mouth wash. (Hmmmm, never noticed that Listerine tasted like thyme.) Also of interest, thyme tea is used in Jamaican birth practice after delivery of the baby to help with contractions to aid in quicker delivery of the placenta. Thyme is also a good source of iron, but I imagine it would have to be consumed in larger quantities than just as a flavoring to meats and eggs to be of any significance to meet RDA.  Back to my galley kitchen - twin virgin ice cream maker, machine and person attempting to create a small batch of honey thyme creamy goodness.   I did not skimp on ingredients -  cream and milk from grass fed cows at Grace Harbor Farms.  For the custard I used three egg yolks instead of two whole eggs.  The resulting treat is lusciously unctuous.  Pairs well with nectarines and pluots roasted with some home made apricot compote infused with earl grey tea. 

If only time was as easy to harness.  Well, maybe it can be, by being present in the sensuality of life's moments.  Thyme's herbal essence captured in a frozen treat and time harnessed by being conscious of the physical and emotional experience. Maybe that's how we can slow down by being in the now.  The present is all we have after all. No one is guaranteed tomorrow.