Key facts
| Hindi name | Tej patta |
|---|---|
| Also called | Tamal patra |
| Flavour | Warm and slightly clove-like, different from the European bay laurel. |
| Heat | No heat |
| Sold as | Dried leaves |
| Stays fresh | Whole: 1 year · check your jars |
| Best substitute | European bay leaf works, though it tastes different. A pinch of cinnamon helps. |
| Used in | 4 of our blends and 8 of our dishes |
How to use it
Fried whole at the start of pulao, biryani, rajma, chole and many North Indian gravies.
- One or two leaves are enough; remove before serving.
Substitute
European bay leaf works, though it tastes different. A pinch of cinnamon helps.
Storage
Keep in a jar; it stays aromatic about a year.
Indian bay leaves have three long veins running from base to tip, which helps tell them apart from bay laurel.
Pairs well with
Dishes that use indian bay leaf
Blends with indian bay leaf
Garam masala (Punjabi style)
North India
The best-known Indian spice mix: warm, aromatic and only mildly hot. Every household has its own version; thi…
Biryani masala
Hyderabad and Lucknow
A fragrant blend with more floral spices than garam masala: mace, nutmeg, star anise and rose.
Frequently asked questions
What is indian bay leaf called in Hindi?
Tej patta. Also known as Tamal patra.
What can I use instead of indian bay leaf?
European bay leaf works, though it tastes different. A pinch of cinnamon helps.
How long does indian bay leaf keep?
Keep in a jar; it stays aromatic about a year.
Tips from travellers
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Questions from readers
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