Bay Leaf Recipes
Leona Said:
What can I use as a bay leaf substitute?We Answered:
You can substitute 1/4 tsp. thyme for a bay leaf. They have a very similar taste.Harvey Said:
Why do recipes say remove the bay leaf. Is it poison?We Answered:
According to Wikipedia Bay leaves have been said to be poisonous, but this has never been proven.Some types of laurel plants are poisonous. It is important to use only Bay Laurel. There is some evidence to suggest that Bay leaf is a uterine stimulant so it should be avoided during pregnancy.
Bay leaf works great to soothe the stomach and relieve flatulence. A tea made from the leaves soothes minor stomach upsets. The oil from the leaves is said to relieve the aches and pains of rheumatism, sprains, bruises, and skin rashes. When pulped, Bay leaves can be applied as an astringent to burns and bruises. Studies have shown Bay to have mildly narcotic and sedative effects on mice, therefore it can be tried in a tea before bed for better sleep, or after a stressful day.
Franklin Said:
Is there anything I can use in place of a bay leaf?We Answered:
Honestly, I've always thought bay leaves were overrated. Unless you're serving gourmands (and even they would barely care), you're fine to just omit it. If you like, sage might make a reasonable substitute. But definitely a small amount. Or rosemary, even.June Said:
what can be a substitue for bay leaf?We Answered:
There is no substitute, but leave them out and add more of your other spices, it will taste fine.Mary Said:
What happens when you eat a bay leaf?We Answered:
Well, they do not contnain alkaloids (toxins) like tomatos do (not enought to hurt you, unless you are highly sensative to alkaloids).The reason why children should not eat bay LEAVES is because bay leaves are very strong, and do not wilt after cooking. these sharp edges can slice weak stomach linings, your gastrointesinal system, and weak, teething gums.
thus children should not eat whole, or chunks big enough to easily hold between your two fingers.
Otherwise, its a great source of antioxidants.
Herbert Said:
Do you know of any recipe that incorporates a LOT of dried bay leaf?We Answered:
I don't believe there is one single recipe that calls for a lot of bay leaf. What I do is to put the bay leaves in a freezer baggie and them store them in the freezer. I bought a bunch of spices while I visited Istanbul, Turkey and this is what I did with all my spices including saffron.