Bay trees are technically part of the Evergreen family, and were originally discovered in Asia minor and parts of the Mediterranean. When they grow in their natural state, they can reach heights of ten to fifteen feet. They thrive in USDA Zones eight through ten, and for this reason those shopping for California bay leaf will be pleased to discover that the spice is not hard to find. Seasoning food is the purpose for which leaves of this kind are most often used.
The aforementioned trees are best grown in shady areas. Frequent watering is necessary, but allowing water to pool around the roots of the trees is unwise. Instead, one should ensure that an appropriate drainage outlet is provided. Young trees of this kind are fragile, and therefore should be protected from elements such as strong winds and storms. This is why immature trees should be kept in planters until it is time to place them in the ground.
Bay leaves are dark green in color and their surfaces are covered with an oil-like substance. This is why they emit a strong scent. They feature an elliptical shape, and are about 3-4 inches long. Yellow flowers typically surround the leaves on the aforementioned trees during the spring season. After the flowers fall from the female trees, they produce black, shiny berries. However, the latter are not safe for human consumption. Therefore, during harvesting, it is essential to separate the leaves from the berries.
The leaves mentioned above are used to create one of the oldest spices in the world. Once they are picked, it takes several weeks for them to dry out enough to achieve the robust flavor for which the spice is famous. The whole leaves are often used to flavor various soups and stews, while ground leaves are best for seasoning meats and vegetables.
The spice features a strong, bitter, and pungent taste. The leaves can be eaten as they are if a person wishes to do so. However, due to the fact that their flavor is very potent, most people would rather use them as seasonings for various dishes, as mentioned above. Some people who use the spice for health purposes may add the leaves to boiling water and consume the spice as tea.
In the majority of instances, it only takes a small amount of the spice to flavor food. For instance, if a person is seasoning soup, a single leaf is usually adequate. When the spice is crushed and placed in dishes containing meat or vegetables, one fourth of a teaspoon is typically sufficient.
Such spices should be stored in shady areas in airtight containers. If placed in direct sunlight, they can lose their potency very quickly. However, if properly stored, they will typically retain their flavor for up to two years.
California bay leaf seasoning blends are available dried, ground, or fresh. However, it is essential to realize that ground leaves must be stored in airtight containers or they will quickly lose their unique aroma. If dried leaves are being used, one should select leaves that are still green. After turning brown, they usually become very bitter and are not tasty. This unique spice can be found online or in conventional stores, but in order to ensure one chooses the best product, he or she should comparison shop. Those who use this interesting and tasty spice as a seasoning will almost certainly enjoy the results.
The aforementioned trees are best grown in shady areas. Frequent watering is necessary, but allowing water to pool around the roots of the trees is unwise. Instead, one should ensure that an appropriate drainage outlet is provided. Young trees of this kind are fragile, and therefore should be protected from elements such as strong winds and storms. This is why immature trees should be kept in planters until it is time to place them in the ground.
Bay leaves are dark green in color and their surfaces are covered with an oil-like substance. This is why they emit a strong scent. They feature an elliptical shape, and are about 3-4 inches long. Yellow flowers typically surround the leaves on the aforementioned trees during the spring season. After the flowers fall from the female trees, they produce black, shiny berries. However, the latter are not safe for human consumption. Therefore, during harvesting, it is essential to separate the leaves from the berries.
The leaves mentioned above are used to create one of the oldest spices in the world. Once they are picked, it takes several weeks for them to dry out enough to achieve the robust flavor for which the spice is famous. The whole leaves are often used to flavor various soups and stews, while ground leaves are best for seasoning meats and vegetables.
The spice features a strong, bitter, and pungent taste. The leaves can be eaten as they are if a person wishes to do so. However, due to the fact that their flavor is very potent, most people would rather use them as seasonings for various dishes, as mentioned above. Some people who use the spice for health purposes may add the leaves to boiling water and consume the spice as tea.
In the majority of instances, it only takes a small amount of the spice to flavor food. For instance, if a person is seasoning soup, a single leaf is usually adequate. When the spice is crushed and placed in dishes containing meat or vegetables, one fourth of a teaspoon is typically sufficient.
Such spices should be stored in shady areas in airtight containers. If placed in direct sunlight, they can lose their potency very quickly. However, if properly stored, they will typically retain their flavor for up to two years.
California bay leaf seasoning blends are available dried, ground, or fresh. However, it is essential to realize that ground leaves must be stored in airtight containers or they will quickly lose their unique aroma. If dried leaves are being used, one should select leaves that are still green. After turning brown, they usually become very bitter and are not tasty. This unique spice can be found online or in conventional stores, but in order to ensure one chooses the best product, he or she should comparison shop. Those who use this interesting and tasty spice as a seasoning will almost certainly enjoy the results.
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