Bay leaf, Usage/Application : Curries, Soups, Stews, Spice Blends

The bay leaf is oval, pointed and smooth, 2.5 - 8 cm (1 to 3 in) long. When fresh, the leaves are shiny and dark green on top with lighter undersides. When dried the bay leaf is a matte olive green.
Bay is a tree of the sun under the celestial sign of leo and has been cultivated from ancient times; its leaves constituted the wreaths of laurel that crowned emperors, heroes and victorious athletes in ancient greece and rome. Bay leaves (laurus nobilis from the lauraceae family) come from the bay laurel tree, native to the mediterranean. Whole leaves are used to season meats, stews, soups and sauces, and are typically removed before serving. Bay leaves are also a component of bouquet garni.