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Dried Bay Leaves

Dried bay leaves are aromatic leaves, typically harvested from the bay laurel tree (Laurus nobilis) native to the Mediterranean region. These leaves have a subtly sweet, minty, yet slightly bitter taste and are often used in soups, stews, sauces, and other dishes to infuse them with their complex flavor. Dried bay leaves have a more concentrated taste than fresh leaves and are easily stored, making them a popular choice for home cooks. To use dried bay leaves in cooking, they are typically added to recipes during the simmering phase, allowing their flavors to meld with the other ingredients. Once the dish is cooked, the leaves should be removed before serving, as they can be tough and have sharp edges. Due to their versatility, dried bay leaves are a staple in many kitchens and are favored for their long shelf life and ability to elevate the flavor profile of a wide variety of dishes.
#88
IN SEASONINGS
313
CAL / 100G
$10.26
AVG / OZ
dried bay leaves
82%
CARBS
9%
FAT
8%
PROTEIN
Dried Bay Leaves FAQ
Dried bay leaves are incredibly versatile, giving a floral, herby, and slightly bitter flavor to dishes. Most commonly used in slow-cooking dishes, they can be a bit tricky to work with. One common mistake is adding too many leaves which can impart an overpowering instead of subtle flavor. Another is forgetting to remove the leaf before serving since it's not meant to be eaten. The best way to get the most out of this ingredient is to let it simmer in your dishes; the longer, the better, since this allows the flavor to delve deeper into your dish. A seldom-known hack is crushing or breaking the leaves to release more flavor but always remember to fish out the fragments later. When dried properly, bay leaves can be more potent, more convenient, and last far longer than their fresh counterparts. They can be easily stored in your pantry, letting you use them as and when required.
Can dried bay leaves be eaten?
Why use dried bay leaves in cooking?
Can I replace dried bay leaves with fresh ones in a recipe?
What happens if I put too many bay leaves in my dish?
Can I just leave out the bay leaf in a recipe?
Can I use crushed bay leaves instead of whole?
Can old dried bay leaves still be used?
Why aren't my dishes flavorful even when I use bay leaves?
What are good substitutes for dried bay leaves if I don't have any?
When is the best time to add bay leaves in cooking?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does dried bay leaves expire?
Unopened dried bay leaves can last 2-3 years past their best by date if stored properly. The duration can be extended even more if you freeze them, they can last up to 5 years in the freezer. Once opened, dried bay leaves can still last up to 2 years if stored properly. Note that while these leaves may not actually 'expire' or become unsafe to eat, they can lose their flavor and potency over time, becoming less effective in your dishes.
How do you tell if dried bay leaves is bad?
The most effective way to tell if dried bay leaves have gone bad is by their smell and flavour. Fresh and good quality dried bay leaves have a strong, slightly sweet and mysterious aroma. If the smell has faded and you can't detect much aroma from the leaf, it's probably past its prime. Additionally, if the leaves look faded or have developed a dull, dark appearance as opposed to their normal greenish-grey hue, it may also indicate that they've lost their flavour.
Tips for storing dried bay leaves to extend shelf life
• Store dried bay leaves in a cool, dark and dry place. A kitchen cabinet that doesn't heat up when you cook is ideal. • Ensure the container or package in which they're stored is airtight. This will prevent moisture and other contaminants from getting in and drying the leaves out. • To extend the shelf-life, store dried bay leaves in the freezer in an airtight container or zip-top bag. However, keep in mind that moisture could reduce their freshness, so you should ensure they're sealed well. • Do not store them above or near the stove, oven, or dishwasher, as the heat and steam can cause the leaves to lose their flavor more swiftly.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Health Info
Macros
0g
CARBS
0g
FAT
0g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
KETO
PALEO
WHOLE 30
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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