Article in Times left unfinished without a herb used in soups (3,4)
I believe the answer is:
bay leaf
'herb used in soups' is the definition.
(bay leaves are often added to soups)
I can't explain the remainder of the clue.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for bay leaf that I've seen before include "Flavouring agent in cooking" , "Part of wreath - for flavouring" , "Herb used in stews" , "Product of the Mediterranean laurel used in cooking" , "Laurel used as herb" .)