Known as Tej Patta in the local tongue, Indian Bay leaf is distinctly different from the European Laurel bay leaf which is more commonly used in the Mediterranean cuisine. Indian Bay leaf is larger and olive green in colour as opposed to the European Laurel bay leaf. The two have an entirely different flavour.
Tej Patta which literally translates to ‘pungent leaf' is also called Malabar leaf. It has a strong aroma, with flavors that are reminiscent of cinnamon, cloves and cassia.
Tej Patta, for its truly authentic aroma and flavour, is used as an ingredient in many Indian dishes, especially in the Moghul or Mughlai cuisine.
How to use Indian Bay Leaf
- Indian Bay leaves are used in their fresh, dried or powdered form
- Dried bay leaves are more frequently used than the fresh as they have a sweeter flavour. Also, the flavour of the dried leaves becomes more intense with cooking. The dried leaves are usually crushed or broken into smaller pieces before adding to a dish.
- Dried and ground Indian bay leaves are an important ingredient in Garam Masala spice mix.
Note: Ground bay leaves cannot be substituted for the whole bay leaves.
Where to use Indian Bay Leaf
- Indian Bay leaves are used as a herb to flavour soups and curries
- Indian Bay leaves can be incorporated into tea
- It is an aromatic addition in Biryani and Korma.
- Dried and ground bay leaves, in the garam masala spice mix, are used to season many recipes
Note: 1-2 bay leaves are enough for adding flavour to most recipes of 6 servings.
At Singal's, we have some traditional spice-mixes to treat you to an ultimate food experience. Try our pack of Shan Biryani masala (authentic taste and aroma of ground spices) and Shan korma curry mix (perfect blend of rich and aromatic spices).
Benefits of Indian Bay Leaf
- Indian Bay leaves are rich in vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, potassium, calcium and magnesium.
- Bay leaves are a rich source of Folic acid. They are known to benefit during periconception period, 3 months before and after pregnancy.
- Indian Bay leaves are known to be good for treating migraines.
- Indian Bay leaves have a number of phytochemicals and essential oils that have improve insulin and glucose metabolism. This helps control glucose levels and is good for people suffering from diabetes.
- Regular intake of bay leaves aids digestion and promotes general health
- Bay leaf is rich in enzymes that help in the breakdown of proteins and help digest food faster
- Bay leaf oil, the oil extracted from bay leaves has medicinal properties and is known for its antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, diuretic and astringent properties
- A component of oil extracted from bay leaves is also used in perfumes.
Recipe for Bay Leaf Tea
Spiced bay leaf tea is aromatic and very comforting. The calming essence of the leaves makes this tea very delicious.
Ingredients
- Water- 1 glass (16 oz)
- Bay leaves- 3 leaves
- Juice- 1, or 2 small lemons
- Boil all these ingredients together in a pot.
- Cool a little, drink it while still lukewarm.
How to store Bay leaves
- Fresh bay leaves can be stored in the refrigerator inside a zip lock bag
- Dried bay leaves can be stored in an airtight container and placed in a cool and dry cabinet.
Who are we? Singal's Indian Grocery is an online Indian grocery store that allows you to receive your favorite Indian products at home! We offer delivery everywhere in Canada. We have more than 700 products that we will gladly deliver to your door!
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