The debate over whether bay leaves truly enhance a dish has been ongoing for years. Some chefs insist they add a crucial depth of flavor, while others, including celebrity chef Ina Garten, have expressed doubts. In a 2022 interview with The New Yorker, Garten admitted, “I really don’t know the answer to this. I will say that I always also wonder whether bay leaf makes a difference. There are a couple of things that I use bay leaves in and I’ve always wanted to make them without the bay leaves to see if it made a difference, and I never have, so I’m not sure” (according to USA TODAY).
For Catholics, this debate offers an interesting reflection on tradition and purpose. Many aspects of our faith involve practices passed down through generations, sometimes without fully understanding their necessity—yet their presence often carries meaning beyond what is immediately perceived. Just as a bay leaf subtly infuses a dish, unseen yet present, so too do many elements of our Catholic traditions enrich our faith in ways that may not always be obvious.
Can You Eat Bay Leaves?
If you do cook with bay leaves, it’s important to use them properly. “Bay leaves are safe to use in cooking but should be removed before consuming the dish because they can be hard and sharp,” says dietitian Jamie Nadeau, RD (according to USA TODAY). Because they are indigestible, WebMD warns that they can remain whole as they pass through the digestive system, posing a risk of getting stuck or even causing injury.
This caution offers another spiritual analogy: certain things in life are meant for preparation and guidance but should not be consumed without discernment. Just as a bay leaf should be removed before eating, certain aspects of life—like unnecessary worries or distractions—should be set aside so that we may fully embrace the nourishment of faith.
Do Bay Leaves Provide Health Benefits?
While bay leaves have been traditionally believed to offer medicinal benefits, research remains inconclusive. Some studies show promising results in animals—for instance, a 2016 study found that rabbits consuming dried bay leaves had lower levels of triglycerides—but “those same findings haven’t been replicated in humans” (according to USA TODAY). Furthermore, researchers have yet to determine how much bay leaf consumption would be necessary to provide any real benefits.
Likewise, in our faith journey, we may encounter spiritual practices that, while beneficial in certain circumstances, may not always produce immediate or tangible effects. Yet, this does not mean they are without purpose. The unseen work of grace often takes time and faith to recognize.
The Takeaway: A Lesson in Faith and Cooking
Whether or not you believe bay leaves enhance your cooking, their presence—though subtle—plays a role in the culinary world. The same can be said of certain traditions in our Catholic faith. We may not always see or fully understand their impact, but they contribute to the depth and richness of our spiritual lives.
As we prepare our meals and live out our faith, let us remember that even the smallest details—like a humble bay leaf—can hold a purpose beyond what we initially perceive. And as always, if you choose to cook with bay leaves, just remember to remove them before serving!
