[poekey]

We have just harvested about a bushel of turkish bay leaves (laurus nobilus) and we want to know if they are best used as fresh leaves, can we freeze them fresh, or should we dry them and then freeze them?  We notice that the dried leaf has more fragrance then the fresh leaf but we also heard that the fresh leaf has a stronger, more complex flavor.  Thank you.

 

[poekey]

thank you.  we needed to trim back the shrubs and ended up with an abundance of bay leaves.   we are giving most away, using some for cooking, and looking into making an oil for skin care.  we appreciate any insights, thanks again

 

[poekey]

BrianShaw, I think it should be very feasible in California.   We are growing ours in New Orleans on the West Bank where it is very humid and never freezes for more than an hour or so, once a year, if that.   We have one on a neighboring property that has grown over 30 ft tall.  Check with a very good local garden supply and see who has cultivated one that works well in your environment, but.  I think you need to be specific to ask for a "Laurus Nobilis" and not a "Umbellularia" which we've heard is more common in CA but not as desirable for some chefs.