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bay leaf.

VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free

ALSO KNOWN AS

laurel leafsweet baybay laurel

Recipes with bay leaf + Add to pantry

SERVING

CALORIES

313

PROTEIN

7.6g

CARBS

51.8g

FAT

8.4g

FIBER

26.3g

NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g

Everything in this ingredient.

MACRONUTRIENTS

Calories313kcal—

Protein7.6g15%

Carbohydrates51.8g19%

Fiber26.3g94%

Total fat8.4g11%

Saturated fat2.3g12%

Trans fat0g—

Cholesterol0mg0%

Water5.4g—

MINERALS

Sodium23mg1%

Potassium529mg11%

Calcium834mg64%

Iron43mg239%

Magnesium120mg29%

Phosphorus113mg9%

Zinc3.7mg34%

Copper0.40mg44%

Manganese8.2mg357%

Selenium2.8µg5%

VITAMINS

Vitamin A309µg34%

Vitamin C46.5mg52%

Vitamin D0µg0%

Thiamin (B1)0.01mg1%

Riboflavin (B2)0.42mg32%

Niacin (B3)2.0mg13%

Vitamin B61.7mg100%

Folate (B9)180µg45%

Vitamin B120µg0%

%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.

MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS

How much is what.

1 cup96g

1 tablespoon6g

1 teaspoon2g

1 oz28.4g

1 lb453.6g

1 ml0.3g

1 piece0.2g

HEALTH BENEFITS

Why eat it.

✓Supports digestive health and reduces bloating
✓Contains anti-inflammatory compounds
✓Rich in Vitamin A for eye health
✓Provides significant amounts of iron and manganese
✓May help improve insulin sensitivity

COOKING TIPS

In the kitchen.

1Add whole leaves early in the cooking process to release oils
2Always remove whole leaves before serving as they are a choking hazard
3Crush leaves slightly before adding to release more intense aroma

STORAGE

Keep it fresh.

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place
Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent flavor loss
Replace every 12 months for maximum potency

FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

Can you eat bay leaves whole?

No, bay leaves should be removed before serving. They remain stiff and sharp even after cooking, posing a choking hazard or risk of scratching the digestive tract.

What is the difference between Mediterranean and Indian bay leaves?

Mediterranean bay leaves (Laurus nobilis) are shorter and have one central vein. Indian bay leaves (Tejpatta) are longer, wider, and have three longitudinal veins with a cinnamon-like aroma.

How long do dried bay leaves last?

Dried bay leaves stay at peak quality for about 1 year if stored in a cool, dark place. They don't spoil but lose their aroma and flavor over time.

What is a good substitute for bay leaf?

Dried thyme or oregano can be used as a substitute, though the flavor profile will change slightly. Use 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme for every bay leaf.

How can I tell if my bay leaves are still good?

Bend the leaf slightly; it should still have a faint herbal aroma when cracked. If it has no scent or has turned completely brown/grey, it should be replaced.

Can I use fresh bay leaves instead of dried?

Yes, but fresh leaves are much more potent and can be slightly bitter. Use half the amount of fresh leaves compared to dried.

Why are bay leaves used in slow-cooked dishes?

The flavor compounds in bay leaves are released slowly through heat and moisture, making them ideal for soups, stews, and braises.

Are bay leaves high in calories?

While 100g of dried bay leaves contains about 313 calories, a single leaf weighs only 0.15g, making its caloric contribution to a meal negligible.

RECIPES