The green, pointed leaves, usually sold dried, are grown on a small tree belonging to the laurel family. They add a pungent, almost evergreen, flavor to foods, and the whole leaf must be removed before the food is served. Bay leaves are used to season a variety of foods. Their use is especially called for in simmered dishes, soups, stews, sauces, and tomato dishes. Bay leaves can easily overwhelm a food, so use them with caution. The longer they cook, the more flavour they add.