One of the most common spices in cooking, bay leaves are used to add flavor and aroma. Bay leaves come from the bay laurel tree and are commonly used to add flavor to dishes such as soups and stews. They're often paired with other herbs like thyme or oregano which help round out their unique taste. They can be a great substitute for fresh parsley if you don't have any on hand because it's one of those flavors that doesn't take much at all before it starts showing up in your dish!
Origin: India, Turkey
Flavor profile: bitter, sweet
Used in: baked potatoes, cooked with fish, curries, or added to a soup or sauce
Health benefits: a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, potassium, calcium, and magnesium, helps treat migraines and calms indigestion