Region of Origin
Commodity:
Bay Leaf California
Description & Origin
The California bay leaf comes from a tree species also known as pepperwood in the laurel plant family that is related to, but distinct from, the Mediterranean Turkish bay laurel that accounts for the vast majority of dried bay leaves sold around the world. California bay leaves are easy to recognize thanks to their thin, elongated shape (versus the rounder, ovate shape of the Turkish bay). Their f...
Other Names
California Bay Laurel
Health Benefits & Nutrition
Native American communities throughout California and Oregon have used the California laurel for its cooling, insecticidal, and germicidal properties throughout history. Early documentation notes California bay used in treatments for headache, stomachache, sore throats, and arthritis, as well as insect repellant, although modern research suggests that the oils found in the plant may actually induce headaches. WARNING: The oils in California laurel may have toxic effects in some people.
Commercial Availability (Grown for the US Market)
Foodservice Tips
Traditional Culinary Uses
Fresh California bay leaves should be used only in culinary applications specifically designed to accommodate their extremely strong menthol and camphor flavor. They do not make a good substitute for common bay leaves. The leaves are intended to be steeped or ground and are typically removed before a dish is served, like dried Turkish bay leaves. Appropriate applications for California bay may include syrups, teas, infusions, or desserts where a Vicks® VapoRub™-like effect is desired. They can also be dried (which slightly mellows their flavor) and ground for use as a black pepper substitute.
Flavor Pairings
Tomato, Fig, Parsley, Sugar, Honey, Ginger
How to Prepare
Wash and dry before use.
How to Store & Use in the Kitchen
Store fresh bay leaf wrapped in a damp paper towel in a bag or sealed container in the coldest part of your refrigerator for optimal shelf life. If dried, bay leaf can be stored in the pantry.
Fight Food Waste Tips for root to stem cooking
Extra bay leaves can be frozen or dried and stored in the pantry for future use.
Warehouse Storage & Handling
Maintain these conditions for optimal short-term storage shelf life.*
IDEAL STORAGE TEMP:
32-40°F
RECOMMENDED TEMP STORAGE ZONE:
32-39°F (Cold Storage)
SUBJECT TO CHILLING INJURY:
No
RELATIVE HUMIDITY:
60-70%
PRODUCES ETHYLENE:
No
SENSITIVE TO ETHYLENE:
Unknown
Quality Assessment
Fresh bay leaf should be pliable, well colored, and aromatic.
Optimum Shelf Life
Depending on variety, conditions at harvest, and handling, fresh bay leaves may last up to one year.