What will tone down thyme in soup?

Thyme can be a powerful herb, and sometimes you just want to mellow it out a bit in your soup. Here are a few things you can do to tone down thyme:

In the Soup:

* Add more liquid: Diluting the soup will reduce the intensity of the thyme flavor.

* Add a touch of sweetness: A bit of sugar, honey, or maple syrup can counteract the herbaceousness of thyme.

* Introduce other herbs: Balancing the thyme with milder herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can help temper its dominance.

* Use a different cooking method: If you're simmering your soup for a long time, the thyme flavor will intensify. Try using a quicker method like a pressure cooker or Instant Pot to reduce cooking time and maintain a milder thyme flavor.

After the Soup is Made:

* Remove some of the thyme: If you used fresh thyme, you can remove some of the sprigs before serving. If you used dried thyme, you can try straining some of the soup to remove the thyme bits.

* Add dairy: Cream, milk, or yogurt can help mellow the thyme flavor and add a creamy richness to the soup.

* Experiment with other flavors: Adding a squeeze of lemon, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add complexity and help balance the thyme flavor.

Important note: The best way to tone down thyme will depend on the specific soup you're making and your personal preference. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly!