Marjoram vs. Thyme — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 21, 2024
Marjoram is a sweet, mild herb often used in European dishes, while thyme has a sharper, earthier flavor suitable for a wide range of cuisines.
Difference Between Marjoram and Thyme
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Marjoram, known for its sweet, mild flavor, is a popular choice in European cooking, particularly in soups and sauces. On the other hand, thyme offers a sharper, more earthy taste, making it a versatile ingredient in Mediterranean, Italian, and French cuisines.
The leaves of marjoram are soft and hairy, suitable for dishes that require a subtle flavor enhancement. Whereas thyme has tiny, firm leaves that can withstand long cooking times, releasing flavors gradually.
Marjoram is typically used fresh to preserve its delicate flavor notes. In contrast, thyme is often used dried, as it retains its robust flavor even after drying.
In herbal medicine, marjoram is used for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. On the other hand, thyme is well-regarded for its antiseptic qualities, particularly in throat remedies.
While marjoram is an annual plant sensitive to cold, thyme is a perennial and more robust, able to survive in colder climates and less fertile soils.
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Comparison Chart
Flavor
Sweet, mild
Sharp, earthy
Common Uses
Soups, sauces
Meats, soups, stews
Leaf Texture
Soft, hairy
Tiny, firm
Use in Cooking
Mostly fresh
Fresh or dried
Medicinal Uses
Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial
Antiseptic, cough relief
Compare with Definitions
Marjoram
Herb from the mint family, known for its aromatic and sweet flavor.
Marjoram is often added to traditional European soups.
Thyme
A culinary and medicinal herb with a pungent, earthy flavor.
Thyme is used liberally in French cooking.
Marjoram
In aromatherapy, marjoram oil is valued for its calming effects.
Marjoram oil is diffused to alleviate stress.
Thyme
Essential oil is used for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Thyme oil is applied in natural cleaning solutions.
Marjoram
Often used as a seasoning in meat dishes and vegetables.
Add marjoram to lamb roasts for a subtle, herby flavor.
Thyme
Commonly found in Mediterranean and European cuisines.
Thyme is essential in Italian seasoning.
Marjoram
Used medicinally for gastrointestinal and respiratory issues.
Marjoram tea is consumed for its digestive benefits.
Thyme
Used in cough syrups and lozenges for its therapeutic properties.
Thyme tea is effective against coughs.
Marjoram
Common in Mediterranean cuisine.
Marjoram is a key ingredient in Greek salad dressing.
Thyme
Holds up well in slow-cooked dishes.
Add thyme to beef stew for a depth of flavor.
Marjoram
Marjoram (; Origanum majorana) is a cold-sensitive perennial herb or undershrub with sweet pine and citrus flavours. In some Middle Eastern countries, marjoram is synonymous with oregano, and there the names sweet marjoram and knotted marjoram are used to distinguish it from other plants of the genus Origanum.
Thyme
Thyme () is the herb (dried aerial parts) of some members of the genus Thymus of aromatic perennial evergreen herbs in the mint family Lamiaceae. Thymes are relatives of the oregano genus Origanum.
Marjoram
A perennial Mediterranean plant (Origanum majorana) in the mint family, having small, purplish to white flowers and opposite leaves. Also called sweet marjoram.
Thyme
Any of several aromatic Eurasian herbs or low shrubs of the genus Thymus of the mint family, especially T. vulgaris, having small white to lilac flowers grouped in clusters.
Marjoram
The leaves of this plant used as a seasoning.
Thyme
The leaves of T. vulgaris used as a seasoning.
Marjoram
A herb of the mint family, Origanum majorana, having aromatic leaves.
Thyme
Any plant of the labiate genus Thymus, such as the garden thyme, Thymus vulgaris, a warm, pungent aromatic, that is much used to give a relish to seasoning and soups.
Marjoram
The leaves of this plant used in flavouring food.
Thyme
Any plant of the labiate genus Thymus. The garden thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is a warm, pungent aromatic, much used to give a relish to seasoning and soups.
Ankle deep in moss and flowery thyme.
I know a bank where the wild thyme blows.
Marjoram
A genus of mintlike plants (Origanum) comprising about twenty-five species. The sweet marjoram (Origanum Majorana) is pecularly aromatic and fragrant, and much used in cookery. The wild marjoram of Europe and America is Origanum vulgare, far less fragrant than the other.
Thyme
Any of various mints of the genus Thymus
Marjoram
Aromatic Eurasian perennial
Thyme
Leaves can be used as seasoning for almost any meat and stews and stuffings and vegetables
Marjoram
Pungent leaves used as seasoning with meats and fowl and in stews and soups and omelets
Common Curiosities
What is the primary flavor difference between marjoram and thyme?
Marjoram has a sweeter, milder taste, while thyme is more pungent and earthy.
What are the best uses for marjoram in cooking?
Marjoram is best used in light dishes like soups and sauces where its sweet flavor can shine.
Is thyme easy to grow at home?
Yes, thyme is a hardy perennial that can be grown in various climates and soil types.
Can you substitute thyme for marjoram in recipes?
Yes, but the flavor profile will change significantly due to thyme's stronger taste.
What are the medicinal benefits of thyme?
Thyme is particularly effective in treating respiratory issues and is used as an antiseptic.
How should marjoram be stored for maximum freshness?
Marjoram should be stored fresh and used quickly or dried carefully to retain its flavor.
How does the texture of marjoram affect its use in cooking?
Its soft texture makes it ideal for fresh applications as it doesn't hold up well to prolonged cooking.
What dishes are improved by adding marjoram?
Marjoram enhances the flavor of poultry, fish, and vegetable dishes.
How do thyme's medicinal uses differ from its culinary applications?
Beyond cooking, thyme is valued for its therapeutic properties, including its ability to alleviate coughs and infections.
What are the health benefits of using marjoram in daily cooking?
Marjoram can aid digestion and has antibacterial properties that promote overall health.
Are there different varieties of thyme?
Yes, thyme comes in several varieties, including lemon thyme and creeping thyme, each with unique flavors.
How does marjoram's flavor change when dried?
Drying marjoram can diminish its flavor, making it less potent than when fresh.
What type of thyme is best for culinary use?
Common thyme (Thymus vulgaris) is most frequently used in cooking for its strong flavor.
Can thyme be used both fresh and dried?
Yes, thyme maintains its flavor well in both fresh and dried forms, suitable for various cooking methods.
Can dried marjoram substitute for fresh in recipes?
While possible, dried marjoram is less flavorful and should be used in greater quantities than fresh.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
