Moreover, its taste and aroma are also similar. In this case, they are a source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Bay leaves are also an essential ingredient when it comes to marinading fish and red meat. Keep its soil level the same as it was grown in its nursery pot. In Brazil and other South American countries, yerba mate is used with boldo leaves to tame its strong flavour. So don’t be afraid of experimenting while cooking. 11 Bottom Line. If you are using the dry powdered kind, use only about ½ teaspoon for every bay leaf. However, use about one teaspoon of dry basil for every bay leaf. And the amount of bay leaves that you are planning to use is the same with the amount of basil that you’re going to put as well. This herb is part of the mint family and it has a pungent, slightly bitter flavor that is similar to a bay leaf. Since it can be expensive or hard to find, these bay leaf substitutes can come in handy when you’re cooking many dishes: For Cooking, Adobo, Stew, and Spaghetti Sauce. The reason is that eating such leaves raw will make your food bitter such that you will not be able to enjoy your food well. Its flavour is spicy, warm, and bitter. Most cooks consider boldo leaves a permanent alternative of bay leaves. Bay Leaf Substitute. 1 What are the best substitutes for bay leaves? Also known as laurel leaf, this is the leaf of the laurel tree. For example, If you want to marinate beef or chicken, take ¼ teaspoon of thyme and sprinkle on the meat to enhance its flavour and aroma. Bay leaf, also known as laurel leaf, is mostly used in soups and broths because it can enhance the aroma and the flavor. If you like Italian, Mediterranean, or French food, you surely have had bay leaves in your meals. To replace 1 whole bay leaf, use 1/4 tsp. Now, if you are in the middle of cooking something and you realize that you have run out of bay leaves already for dinner. Bay trees are planted in the generous amount of compost and well-drained soil. You don’t have to follow everything that is written in the recipe book religiously. It can even enhance the flavor of your dish compared to using the expected herbs. In stews, meat dishes, and some sauces, bay leaf makes a big difference. Bay leaves are the leaves of the Bay Laurel tree that are used for culinary flavouring. How Much To Substitute: You can use the same amount of oregano as you would bay leaf. You can use basil in many dishes, including soups, stews, pasta, and spaghetti sauce. Basil. Some organic supermarkets are starting to sell these too. They are commonly used as dried. This is most commonly used in recipes with duck as the main ingredient. The above-mentioned bay leaf substitutes will surely give you flavour. Technically, these leaves aren’t meant to be eaten but are used for steeping and infusing. If the recipe calls for dried bay leaves, use the same amount of dried thyme. Bay leaves are native to the Mediterranean region, but they are popular all around the world. in Nutrition, Dietetics, and Sensory Sciences. Top 6 Peanut Oil Substitutes For All Your Frying, Baking, and Sauteing Needs, Top 7 Substitutes for Garlic Powder for A Flavorful Dish, Top 6 Pumpkin Pie Spice Substitutes For Your Favorite Fall Desserts, Top 7 Substitutes For Goat Cheese That Are Great in Any Dish. You can use both fresh and dry rosemary in any dish, but these two will work well in soups, stews, and potatoes. 5 Oregano. OR - Rather than using bay substitute 1/4 teaspoon of juniper berries per bay leaf called for. Sometimes, changing herbs and replacing them with alternatives that you have in your kitchen can help you to create a new recipe. It’s worth bearing in mind that Mexican oregano has a much stronger flavour than regular oregano. When she isn’t busy working, you can find her running with her dog Milo or reading a book in the sun. What are the best substitutes for bay leaves. thyme. Finding thyme shouldn’t be too hard and your local grocery or organic store should have it fresh or dry. The flavor is a bit anise-like with a slight hint of citrus, so it can be added at the end of cooking for more aroma. It belongs to the Monimiaceae family, which is very close to bay family. You can harvest bay leaves at any time of the year, but the mature and larger leaves have the best flavour. How Much To Substitute: Use the same amount of basil as you would bay leaves. #3. What’s the herb that can help you achieve your goal?