Description
Bay Leaf is the aromatic leaf from the evergreen bay laurel tree, native to the Mediterranean. There are two varieties: Turkish (1 to 2 inch long oval) and California (2 to 3 inch long narrow) leaves. The Turkish is said to have the better flavor.
PLURAL:
Bay leaves
SEASON:
available year-round
HOW TO SELECT:
Fresh bay leaves are rarely available.
HOW TO STORE:
Keep for 6 months in a cool dark place.
HOW TO PREPARE:
Flavor soups, stews and long-cooking dishes, but remove before serving.
MATCHES WELL WITH:
beans, game, lentils, potatoes, risotto, shellfish, soups, stews, tomatoes
SUBSTITUTIONS:
1/4 tsp crushed bay leaf = 1 whole bay leaf = 1/4 tsp thyme
