Bay Leaf

Instructions

1. 1

   Also called laurel leaf or bay laurel, this aromatic herb comes from the evergreen bay laurel tree, native to the Mediterranean.

2. 2

   Early Greeks and Romans attributed magical properties to the laurel leaf and it has long been a symbol of honor, celebration and triumph, as in "winning your laurels." The two main varieties of bay leaf are Turkish (which has 1- to 2-inch-long oval leaves) and Californian (with narrow, 2- to 3-inch-long leaves).

3. 3

   The Turkish bay leaves have a more subtle flavor than do the California variety.

4. 4

   Bay leaves are used to flavor soups, stews, vegetables and meats.

5. 5

   They're generally removed before serving.

6. 6

   Overuse of this herb can make a dish bitter.

7. 7

   Fresh bay leaves are seldom available in markets.

8. 8

   Dried bay leaves, which have a fraction of the flavor of fresh, can be found in supermarkets.

9. 9

   Store dried bay leaves airtight in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.