Bay trees are in the Evergreen family, and were initially found in the Mediterranean and Asia minor. If allowed to grow naturally, the tree can reach heights between 10 to 15 feet. Bay trees grow well in USDA Zones 8 through 10, and therefore those looking for California bay leaf will find that the spice is not difficult to locate. Leaves of this type are most commonly used to season food.
Bay trees grow best in areas with plenty of shade. Although they need frequent watering, the water should not be allowed to pool around the roots of the tree. Instead, excess water should be allowed to drain from the pot. Young bay trees require protection from inclement weather, as they are easily damaged. This is why such trees should be maintained in potting containers until they are mature enough to be placed in the ground.
The leaves of Bay trees are dark green and are covered with an oily substance. For this reason, there scent is strong. Their shape is somewhat elliptical and they are approximately three to four inches long. In the spring, the trees on which these leaves are found are covered with small flowers that are usually yellow in color. The female trees produce shiny black berries after their flowers fall, but these berries are not edible. Therefore, it is important to keep them separated from the leaves during harvesting procedures.
The leaves mentioned above are used to create one of the oldest spices in the world. Once they are picked, it takes several weeks for them to dry out enough to achieve the robust flavor for which the spice is famous. The whole leaves are often used to flavor various soups and stews, while ground leaves are best for seasoning meats and vegetables.
The spice features a strong, bitter, and pungent taste. The leaves can be eaten as they are if a person wishes to do so. However, due to the fact that their flavor is very potent, most people would rather use them as seasonings for various dishes, as mentioned above. Some people who use the spice for health purposes may add the leaves to boiling water and consume the spice as tea.
In the majority of instances, it only takes a small amount of the spice to flavor food. For instance, if a person is seasoning soup, a single leaf is usually adequate. When the spice is crushed and placed in dishes containing meat or vegetables, one fourth of a teaspoon is typically sufficient.
It is best to store such leaves in an airtight containers in a shady area. If stored in direct sunlight, they can quickly lose their potency. If stored appropriately, however, they will usually retain their flavor for several years.
California bay leaf spices can be found in various forms, including dried, ground, and fresh varieties. It is essential, however, to realize that ground leaves will lose their unique flavor very quickly if the container in which they are stored is left open. Dried leaves should always be used while green: they become very bitter and unpalatable after turning brown. This tasty spice can be bought in conventional stores or online. However, comparison shopping is always wise. This will ensure the highest quality brand is chosen. Virtually anyone who tries this unique spice will enjoy its flavor.
Bay trees grow best in areas with plenty of shade. Although they need frequent watering, the water should not be allowed to pool around the roots of the tree. Instead, excess water should be allowed to drain from the pot. Young bay trees require protection from inclement weather, as they are easily damaged. This is why such trees should be maintained in potting containers until they are mature enough to be placed in the ground.
The leaves of Bay trees are dark green and are covered with an oily substance. For this reason, there scent is strong. Their shape is somewhat elliptical and they are approximately three to four inches long. In the spring, the trees on which these leaves are found are covered with small flowers that are usually yellow in color. The female trees produce shiny black berries after their flowers fall, but these berries are not edible. Therefore, it is important to keep them separated from the leaves during harvesting procedures.
The leaves mentioned above are used to create one of the oldest spices in the world. Once they are picked, it takes several weeks for them to dry out enough to achieve the robust flavor for which the spice is famous. The whole leaves are often used to flavor various soups and stews, while ground leaves are best for seasoning meats and vegetables.
The spice features a strong, bitter, and pungent taste. The leaves can be eaten as they are if a person wishes to do so. However, due to the fact that their flavor is very potent, most people would rather use them as seasonings for various dishes, as mentioned above. Some people who use the spice for health purposes may add the leaves to boiling water and consume the spice as tea.
In the majority of instances, it only takes a small amount of the spice to flavor food. For instance, if a person is seasoning soup, a single leaf is usually adequate. When the spice is crushed and placed in dishes containing meat or vegetables, one fourth of a teaspoon is typically sufficient.
It is best to store such leaves in an airtight containers in a shady area. If stored in direct sunlight, they can quickly lose their potency. If stored appropriately, however, they will usually retain their flavor for several years.
California bay leaf spices can be found in various forms, including dried, ground, and fresh varieties. It is essential, however, to realize that ground leaves will lose their unique flavor very quickly if the container in which they are stored is left open. Dried leaves should always be used while green: they become very bitter and unpalatable after turning brown. This tasty spice can be bought in conventional stores or online. However, comparison shopping is always wise. This will ensure the highest quality brand is chosen. Virtually anyone who tries this unique spice will enjoy its flavor.
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