Ingredients
Bay Leaf
The ingredient
Bay leaf is a dried aromatic leaf from the bay laurel shrub. Bay leaf is used globally and is a popular ingredient in many Indian dishes, where it is added during cooking and sometimes removed before serving. The Indian bay leaf we use gives a subtle, warm, complex flavor with notes of cinnamon and clove.
The benefits
In Ayurveda, bay leaf is considered warming. It balances the kapha (earth and water) and vata (air and space) doshas (energies or substances), while increasing pitta (fire and water). It is traditionally used as a digestive aid and as a natural insect repellent. Some research studies have supported possible benefits of bay leaf including:
- Treating insulin resistance
- Helping to protect against bacteria
- Improving brain function
How We Use Bay Leaf
Bay leaf is a spice used in garam masala, which we use in many recipes in our menu. For example:
