In Indian kitchens, bay leaves or tej patta, are a staple. Whether it is to prepare aromatic biryani, a comforting dal, or a flavourful curry, bay leaves add that subtle spicy touch that makes dishes come to life. Although bay leaves are available fresh, while cooking, it is typically used in a dried form. But what do you do when your bay leaves start to look old and have lost their signature aroma? Well, don't throw them away! You can use them in and around the kitchen in various ways. Intrigued? Read on to learn how you can use old bay leaves at home.
Also Read: DIY Chai Masala: Prepare A Masala Tea Pre-Mix At Home With These Kitchen Spices
How To Know If Your Bay Leaves Have Lost Their Charm?
You can tell if your bay leaves have gone bad or old pretty easily. Fresh bay leaves have a vibrant green colour and a strong aroma. With time, they tend to lose their vibrant colour and turn into olive or brownish. Also, their aroma fades. Another way to know is by crumbling the bay leaves. If they break or crumble easily, then it is time to buy some new bay leaves for cooking.
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Here Are 5 Ways To Use Old Bay Leaves At Home:
1. Infuse Cooking Oils
Yes! You can still use your bay leaves in cooking but not in the way you expect them to be. Place a few bay leaves in your bottle of cooking oil and let it sit for a couple of days. The leaves will release a mild flavour in the oil, which you can use in your curries, gravies, salads and biryanis.
2. Potpourri
Picture this: you walk into your home and a gentle, calming fragrance rubs across your face. Well, you can make this happen by using your stack of old bay leaves. All you have to do is mix old bay leaves with dried flower petals, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Add a few drops of essential oils over the mixture to enhance the scent of the potpourri. Transfer this to a decorative bowl or small bag. And voila! this potpourri will keep your room and kitchen smelling fresh and aromatic.
3. Bay Leaf Tea
Have you had an upset stomach or been feeling stressed lately? Bay leaf tea can help you with that! In fact, even old bay leaves can be used to make this comforting tea. Boil 2-3 bay leaves in two cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the tea into a cup and add a dash of honey. You can also add some lemon juice for extra flavour. This bay leaf tea can be a perfect beverage to wrap your long day with.
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4. Spice Mix For Home Aroma
Are you out of home fresheners and have some guests coming over? It's time to put those old bay leaves to use. You can create a natural home freshener using this spice. To make this, use old bay leaves with cinnamon sticks, cloves, orange peels, lemon peels, and some star anise. Add these ingredients to a pot of water and let it simmer on low heat. The slow simmer will release a warm, spicy fragrance that can make your house's vibe cosy and warm.
5. Natural Insect Repellent
If you are struggling with pests in your kitchen and home, then use bay leaves to keep them at bay. Just place old bay leaves in your cupboards, kitchen shelves and under the sink to keep cockroaches, ants and other insects at bay. Crush the leaves slightly before placing them in a bowl to release more natural oils. This would make a natural and eco-friendly pest repellent for your home.
Also Read: Bay Leaf (Tej Patta) Benefits: 6 Reasons Why You Should Add It To Your Delicacies!
Can you think of some other way to use old bay leaves at home? Let us know in the comments below!