Bay Leaves

Laurus nobilis Herb/Spice

Bay Leaves Herb/Spice

At a Glance

  • Category Herb/Spice

The Forktionary Angle

"The quiet powerhouse of flavor, subtly deepening and enriching broths, stews, and braises without overpowering other ingredients."

Definition

Aromatic leaves from the bay laurel tree, used dried to impart a subtle, savory, and slightly bitter flavor to slow-cooked dishes.

Flavor Release Best in long, slow cooking processes.
Shelf Life (Dried) Up to 1-2 years if stored properly.
Usage Tip Remove before serving (not meant for consumption).

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Bay Leaves are:

Aromatic herbaceous slightly bitter savory subtly woody

Chef’s Secret

For a stronger aroma, lightly crush dried bay leaves between your fingers before adding them to your dish; this helps release their essential oils.

Best Substitutes

Thyme

few sprigs, different profile

Dried Oregano

pinch, different profile, use sparingly

Buying Guide

Look for whole, unbroken, greenish-brown leaves. Avoid dusty or faded ones, which indicate old age and lost potency.

Recipes Using Bay Leaves

Heirloom Historical Mexican North American Time To Make

Authentic Mexican Pozole

Craving a heartwarming and flavorful Mexican feast? This Authentic Mexican Pozole recipe, passed down from a friend in Mexico, is a crowd-pleaser guaranteed to have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds!). Unlike traditional menudo, this pozole is free of tripe and pig's feet, making it enjoyable for all palates. This rich and delicious soup is bursting with authentic Mexican flavors and is incredibly easy to make. Prepare to be amazed by its depth of flavor and the vibrant colors! Don't forget to customize your bowl with fresh garnishes and a squeeze of lime for the perfect finishing touch!

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Low Protein Fall Low Protein Low Cholesterol

Bacon Corn Chowder With Potatoes

Warm up on a chilly night with this hearty and flavorful Bacon Corn Chowder! Creamy potatoes, sweet corn, and crispy bacon combine in a rich broth for the ultimate Wisconsin winter comfort food. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for a cozy night in.

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Course Main Dish Course One Dish Meal

Bean Potato And Sauerkraut Soup

Warm up from the inside out with this comforting bean, potato, and sauerkraut soup! Perfect for chilly days, this recipe is easily adaptable to vegetarian diets by omitting the prosciutto. A rich and flavorful broth, hearty potatoes, and tangy sauerkraut combine for a truly satisfying meal. This recipe is inspired by a classic Northeastern comfort food, perfect for a cozy night in.

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Beef 3 Steps Or Less Beef Dietary

Barley And Beef Soup

This slow-simmered Barley and Beef Soup, adapted from Cooking Light, is a flavor explosion! Made with tender beef, hearty barley, and colorful vegetables, this recipe develops incredible depth overnight. Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or spicy whole-wheat pita chips for a complete and satisfying meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a make-ahead weeknight dinner!

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4 Hours Or Less Soups Stews Dietary Main Dish

Beef Lentil Soup

This hearty Beef and Lentil Soup is a complete and satisfying meal in one pot! Tender beef, earthy lentils, and a rich broth combine for a flavorful and comforting experience. Perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers big on taste.

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Dietary Course Preparation Dietary

Steak N Noodles

Relive your childhood with this nostalgic Steak N Noodles recipe! Tender beef simmered in a rich, savory gravy, then served over fluffy egg noodles. This family favorite is incredibly easy to make and delivers unbelievable flavor – guaranteed to become a new tradition in your home. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort!

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Seasonal Pasta Rice And Grains Time To Make Vegetables

Best Chicken Soup Ever

This isn't just chicken noodle soup; it's a hug in a bowl! Created by combining the best elements of several family recipes, this comforting classic is perfect for soothing a cold or simply enjoying on a chilly evening. I freeze batches to share with loved ones – a taste of home and healing whenever they need it most. Get ready for the most flavorful, tender chicken and perfectly cooked noodles you've ever tasted!

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Comfort Food 4 Hours Or Less Comfort Food Italian

Baked Penne With Sausage And Ricotta

Say hello to cheesy, bubbly perfection! This Baked Penne with Sausage and Ricotta recipe is a crowd-pleaser, packed with flavor and easy to make ahead. Tender penne pasta is tossed with savory Italian sausage, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella and Parmesan. It's the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Make it ahead, refrigerate overnight, and bake for a stress-free, delicious meal.

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Taste Mood Russian Main Dish Course

Beef Stroganov With Mustard Govjadina Po Stroganovski's Gorchi

Discover the authentic taste of history with this legendary Beef Stroganov recipe! Passed down from generations of the Stroganov family, this classic Russian dish features a rich, creamy sauce with a secret mustard kick. Imagine savoring this culinary masterpiece, a true testament to Russian gastronomy, in a cozy Volga River restaurant. This recipe includes detailed instructions and variations to create your perfect Stroganov, from classic to modern twists. Get ready for a flavor journey through time!

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Vegetables Soups Stews Crock Pot Slow Cooker 4 Hours Or Less

Beef Barley And Vegetable Soup

This comforting Beef Barley and Vegetable Soup bursts with fresh flavor! Simple to make, it's perfect for a cozy night in and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy this delicious, healthy meal made in either a slow cooker or on the stovetop.

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Time To Make Onions Corn American

Ann's Version Of Posole By The Shed

Craving the magic of The Shed's famous posole but can't make it to Santa Fe? This recipe brings the taste of New Mexico right to your kitchen! Warm yourself on a chilly evening with this hearty and flavorful pork posole. For an authentic taste, seek out New Mexico red chile flakes – they're incredible! McCormick's is a great alternative if you can't find them. Don't forget the fluffy, warm corn tortillas for the perfect finishing touch!

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Ground Beef 4 Hours Or Less Meat Main Dish

Beef And Barley Chili

This hearty Beef and Barley Chili is a flavour explosion! Barley adds a nutty chewiness and satisfying fiber, stretching your beef further while absorbing all those delicious chili flavors. Alberta Health Services inspired, this recipe focuses on low-sodium ingredients for a healthier twist. Get ready for a comforting and flavorful meal the whole family will love! Perfect for a chilly evening or game day!

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Beef Presentation Preparation Vegetables

Beef Pot Pie With Polenta Crust

Indulge in this hearty Beef Pot Pie featuring a tender, slow-simmered beef stew topped with a surprisingly delightful creamy polenta crust. This comforting classic gets a gourmet twist with a crust that's both rich and satisfying. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion!

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Penne Pasta Toddler Friendly Number Of Servings

Amys Lasagna Style Casserole

Craving lasagna but short on time? This quick and easy casserole delivers big on flavor! Italian sausage and pepperoni bring a fun pizza twist to this classic comfort food. Use your favorite jarred sauce or elevate the dish with my Grandma Shannon's incredible spaghetti sauce recipe (included!). Ready in under an hour – perfect for a weeknight meal.

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One Dish Meal Low Calorie Main Dish Main Ingredient

Beef In Beer Stew

Score big with this hearty Beef in Beer Stew! Perfect for game day or a cozy night in, this fall-apart tender beef stew simmers in rich beer broth with tender potatoes, carrots, and peas. An easy, flavorful recipe the whole family will love.

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For 1 Or 2 Main Ingredient Preparation Meat

Beef Flautas

Crispy, golden Beef Flautas with a vibrant tomatillo salsa verde! This recipe, inspired by Taste of Home's Cooking for Two magazine (Fall 2006), delivers a flavor explosion in every bite. Tender shredded beef is nestled in warm tortillas, then fried to perfection. The homemade salsa verde adds a zesty, fresh counterpoint that will leave you wanting more. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun appetizer!

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Pork Preparation Weeknight Seasonal

Bacon And Cabbage Soup

Warm up on a chilly evening with this hearty and flavorful Bacon and Cabbage Soup! This comforting one-pot meal is perfect as a starter or a light dinner. Featuring tender potatoes, crisp cabbage, and smoky bacon (Canadian or regular!), this recipe is easy to follow and yields several quarts of delicious soup – perfect for freezing and enjoying later. Get ready for a taste of pure comfort!

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Casseroles Casseroles Weeknight Pasta

Baked Spaghetti With Chicken

Warning: This cheesy, chicken-packed baked spaghetti is seriously addictive! We're talking a from-scratch sauce (super easy!), a dreamy blend of cheeses including cream cheese, and tender chicken all baked to bubbly perfection. Feel free to adjust the cheese – less for a lighter dish, more if you're a cheese lover! Prep time includes simmering, so don't let that scare you. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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