الأربعاء، 29 يناير 2014

The California Bay Leaf Is Unique

مرسلة بواسطة Unknown في 5:26 ص
By Grace Rivas


Initially harvested in Asia and certain parts of the Mediterranean, Bay trees belong to the Evergreen tree family. When they grow wild, they typically measure between ten and fifteen feet tall. USDA Zones 8 to 10 are the areas in which these trees grow best. For this reason, individuals searching for California bay leaf will discover that the spice is easy to locate. Its most common use is to season various dishes.

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.

Bay leaves are dark green in color and their surfaces are covered with an oil-like substance. This is why they emit a strong scent. They feature an elliptical shape, and are about 3-4 inches long. Yellow flowers typically surround the leaves on the aforementioned trees during the spring season. After the flowers fall from the female trees, they produce black, shiny berries. However, the latter are not safe for human consumption. Therefore, during harvesting, it is essential to separate the leaves from the berries.

The aforementioned leaves are one of the world's oldest spices. They must be dried for several weeks after they are picked, or they will not develop a robust flavor. Crushed leaves are frequently used to season meat and vegetables, while whole leaves are generally used as a flavoring agent for soups and stews.

The spice has a bitter, pungent, and strong taste. If one so desires, he or she can eat the leaves by themselves. However, due to their powerful flavor, most people find that it is more advantageous to use them as seasonings. Certain people who consume the spice for health reasons brew the leaves into a tea.

In the majority of instances, it is only necessary to add a small amount of the spice to food, due to the potency of its flavor. For instance, a single leaf is usually more than adequate with which to season stew. If the powdered form of the spice is being used to season meats or vegetables, a quarter of a teaspoon is generally all that is needed.

Such leaves should be stored in shady areas in containers that can be tightly sealed. This is because direct sunlight can cause them to lose their potent flavor. If stored properly, however, they will retain their flavor for two years in most cases.

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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