bay leaf

American  

[bey leef] / ˈbeɪ ˌlif /

noun

1. the dried leaf of the bay laurel, Laurus nobilis, used in cooking.

2. the leaf of the bayberry, Pimenta racemosa, used in making bay oil and bay rum.

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bay leaf British  

noun

1. a leaf, usually dried, of the Mediterranean laurel, Laurus nobilis , used in cooking to flavour soups and stews

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Etymology

Origin of bay leaf

First recorded in 1630–40

Example Sentences

Generous hunks of vanilla bean dot her lemon marmalade; bay leaf infuses her blackberry jam.

From The Wall Street Journal

Add salt and optional seasoning ingredients like celery leaves and bay leaf and bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat and simmer low until done, about 45 to 50 minutes.

From Salon

My husband created a meatless version with whole tomatoes, olive oil, onions, bay leaves and lots of garlic that was just as yummy as his old recipe.

From Los Angeles Times

Add combined oyster liquor and chicken broth, bay leaf, and a handful of chopped green parts of green onions, and bring to a low boil.

From Salon

It includes recipes for meyer lemon and bay leaf gelato, jasmine-scented almond milk mousse and fruit pudding made from white melon and orange blossom.

From Salon