Tejpatta (Indian Bay Leaf) is an aromatic whole leaf spice commonly used in Indian cooking to infuse curries, rice dishes, lentils, and gravies with a warm herbal fragrance. It is often added during tempering or slow cooking so that its aroma can develop gradually. Tejpatta is an important ingredient in biryani, pulao, curry bases, and traditional masala blends, where it contributes subtle background flavour and depth.