Bay leaf
Bay leaf: a concentrated flavouring that adds aroma, colour or intensity and allows you to transform a dish with a small amount.
What it offers and why to use it
Bay leaf: a concentrated flavouring that adds aroma, colour or intensity and allows you to transform a dish with a small amount. Add gradually. Briefly toasting or adding it to a fat will release the aromas, but avoid burning it as it can become bitter.
Concentrated flavour profile that can be warm, spicy, sweet, earthy or smoky.
From shopping to cooking
Choose
When buying bay leaf, check that it retains its aroma and colour, that the packaging is dry and sealed, and that it does not show any clumping, insects or stale odour.
Store
Store tightly in a cool, dry, dark place. Whole spices retain their aroma for longer than ground spices.
Prepare
Add gradually. Briefly toasting or adding it to a fat will release the aromas, but avoid burning it as it can become bitter.
How to make the most of it
Good pairings
Pairs well with sauces, vegetables, legumes, rice, meats, fish, and marinades.
How to substitute it
If you don't have bay leaf, substitute with a spice with a similar flavour profile, and adjust gradually: intensity and spiciness are not equivalent.
Recipes with bay leaf
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