Eli5: Why are bay leaves used whole, when every other spice is chopped or ground up?

Question

Eli5: Why are bay leaves used whole, when every other spice is chopped or ground up?

In: 4471

Answer 1

Plenty of things are left whole in recipes.

Eg star anise, all spice berries, peppercorns, cloves, etc. all used whole to spice corned beef / salt beef and other recipes. Pho uses a similar mix, also whole.

Indian food often has whole cardamom seeds, mustard leaves.

Cinnamon sticks are often used whole in a range of cuisines.

It all depends on the flavor profile and cooking method used.