What is Bay?
Although the bay leaf, also known as laurel, is what is commonly known as the spice, its berries possess similar physical and symbolic properties. Laurel leaves have for many years carried a symbolism of victory or accomplishment while its berries came to be used for educational honors. The Latin phrase for laurel berries, baca lauri, is at the root of the honorary Baccalaureate.
Bay leaves are the dried leaves of the Laurus nobilis evergreen. It is cultivated in many parts of the world, particularly in areas surrounding the Mediterranean. The leaves are elliptical in shape measuring up to 3 inches in length and bearing a light to olive green color. Small yellow or white flowers and shiny berries complement the leaves, adding to the beauty of the plant. At their harvest, bay leaves are dried to their characteristic pale green brittle state under light pressure to prevent curling. They are then carefully packed for shipment to minimize breakage of the whole leaves.
What is it used for today?
Bay usage within seasoning blends has seen a steady increase in the United States in recent years. It is a common component of many meat-based soups or stews and is essential to mixed pickling spices. Deli-style meat seasonings such as corned beef, luncheon loaves, and some sausages also contain bay leaves.
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