Bay Leaves

Bay leaves come from bay trees, which in Latin is a Laurus.  In Roman times, a wreath or crown made from bay leaves was a sign of honor for its bearer.  (Think of the phrase “to rest on one’s laurels.”)  Kings, priests, prophets, poets, and the victors of both scholarly and athletic contests wore laurels in public.  Today’s college graduates are awarded a Baccalaureate degree.  (A “baccalaureus” is a laurel berry.)

Bay leaves are especially popular in Spanish, Creole and French cooking, and are used to flavor soups, stews, and tomato sauces.  Be sure to use whole leaves and to pull them out before serving your dish.

Tags: bay leaves, creole, french, herb history, roman, spanish