simba
I have only used bay leaf in one recipe and I didn't like the flavor it gave so I always leave it out.

chefgrille
It's very mildly sweet. It imparts just a hint of flavor in soups and stews. Just take them out before eating the soup, you don't want to actually eat them, just get the flavor out of them.

dreams_poss
you can use curry leaves (which we usually get in indian shops) instead of bay leaf. it will smell good and is much more better than bay leaf

MrHarVy
Yes it is good, vearry good ,not hot,sweet, it's a spice. But do take it out befor serving. I usuly leave it on top soas I can get it quickly

lindatindell1949
I USE BAY LEAFS TO ADD FLAYOR TO MY BEANS AND SOUPS IT MAKES, THEM TASTE, BETTER.

Drisana R
A bay leaf is a middly sweet leaf. I add about 2-3 whole ones into my spaghetti sauce as it cooks. (dont eat the leaves-these add the flavor-pick them out of sauces etc once they are done.). Bay leaves are best used in recipes that call for other mildly sweet hersb and spices, such as oregano and basil.

Beth
It is okay to leave it out of whatever you are making but I throw about three, depending on their size, into the water when I make pot roast, beef stew or chili. They give beef a really good flavor. Just remove them before serving.

rufus b
I always use bay leaves in most soups, all stews and tuck one or two under the string when roasting meats. It is quite a mild herb, which you throw away after the dish is cooked. If a recipe calls for it, then try it, you may find that you like it. However, it will not matter too much if you leave it out.