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Bay Leaves
 Known as Sweet Bay or Sweet Laurel, Bay Leaves are one of the
most commonly used herbs. The history of Bay Leaves dates back to the legends of the Greek
God Apollo, who was the God of prophecy, healing and poetry. Apollo was in love with a
nymph named Daphne, who wanted nothing to do with him. She turned herself into a bay tree
to hide from him. When he found out he declared the bay tree sacred and wore a wreath of
its leaves on his head in her memory. Crowns of bay leaves were given to winners of
battles and sporting events in ancient Greece and Rome. At that same time in history poets
received the similar honor of "poet laureate" an honor that is still given
today.
The bay
leaf is hand picked from the "evergreen" bay tree found mostly in the
Mediterranean. The trees can grow to 60 feet with thick and shiny leaves. Thin layers of
leaves are dried in the shade. They are weighted down to prevent curling.
Bay
leaves have a soft aromatic scent and a mildly bitter flavor. The California bay leaf is
stronger and oilier than those imported from Turkey. Turkish leaves are preferred for
their subtler, less mentholated taste and they are also healthier for you. Bay leaves
release their aroma best in liquid and are essential to all stocks and soups. They also
make a wonderful seasoning to meats, marinades and simmered sauces. Try putting Bay Leaves
in between layers of meat during cooking. Be sure to remove the Bay Leaves before serving.
Watkins
accepts only the highest quality Turkish Bay Leaves. We carefully process them to preserve
all essential oils to bring you the highest quality and the best taste.
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Leaves Here