Have you already encountered saffron? It’s a thread-like “golden spice” traditionally used as a cooking ingredient and for medicinal purposes. Due to its complicated way of cultivating, saffron is known to be the most expensive spice in the world.
In addition, some even say it’s more expensive than gold. Nowadays, saffron is widely known worldwide, and it’s interesting how the tiny threads of stigma from the crocus bulb can be one of the sought-after spices in the culinary world.
In this article, we’ll discuss all the essential things you need to know about saffron, so don’t hesitate to check the list below!
1. Saffron has a rich history
Thousands of years ago, saffron was believed to have originated in Southwest Asia, particularly in Iran. It’s believed that the land in that area is fertile and warm, making it the right place to grow saffron. From there, the Ancient civilisation took an interest in using saffron for culinary and medical purposes.
Back then, saffron was also valued as a luxury item and used for special rituals and ceremonies. In addition, the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians also use saffron in making perfume and dyes.
Nowadays, saffrons are still used for the same purposes as before, but with more variations. So if you’re interested to use saffron, you can look at how it’s used as before.
2. Saffron tends to be complicated when cultivating and harvesting
Saffron is the stigma from the Crocus sativus (also known as autumn crocus) flower. It’s a purple flower that comes from a short plant. Normally, the flower appears in one to two weeks during the autumn. Each flower can only have three saffron threads and is handpicked carefully to preserve its quality.
So if you need a pound of saffron, it may take around 75,000 autumn crocus flowers to fulfil the order.
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Association, there have been various attempts to cultivate saffron in various countries around the world. However, until now, Iran still produces around 85% of the world’s saffron. As for the other supplies, they come from parts of Spain, the US, Morocco, and Greece.
3. Saffron has a distinct flavour and aroma
Saffron has a subtle and earthy flavour. Although its hints and notes are similar to other spices, it still has specific characteristics that distinguish it from the others. In terms of its scent, it’s described as slightly sweet and exotic.
As mentioned, saffron has also been used to make perfume, and due to its sweet smell that comes from various chemicals, such as safranal, crocin, and picrocrocin. That’s why it’s been used for many purposes.
4. Saffron has been used for culinary purposes
Nowadays, you can find saffron in various dishes. One of the most popular dishes that features saffron is the paella. If you’re interested to find out what saffron tastes like, you can visit Spanish restaurants and try their paella.
Aside from paella, saffron is also used in biryani and risotto. But since it’s also used in desserts, like cakes, pastries, and ice creams. It’s undeniable how versatile saffron is, especially when it comes to the culinary world.
5. Saffron is also used for medical purposes
Although saffron has been used mainly for cooking and baking, it’s also known as an ingredient for medicines. It protects the body from harmful toxins, and there are also mental health benefits.
When it comes to protecting physical health, it’s believed that it contains anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer agents. On the other hand, in terms of mental health-related benefits, it’s believed to have anti-depressant and memory-enhancing effects.
6. Saffron has certain ways of buying and storing
Since saffron is expensive, there may be some issues when it comes to authenticity. So when buying saffron online or in physical stores, ensure that you know what it looks like. Authentic saffron is deep-red strands that also contain an orange hue.
See if the way of storing saffron won’t affect its quality. Usually, saffrons shouldn’t be placed in a transparent container or plastic since their colour might fade. In addition, it shouldn’t be stored directly under the sun to preserve its flavour. If properly stored and taken care of, saffron can last up to two years.
If you’re looking for a place to buy saffron, you can check specialty shops, local retailers, and direct growers.
7. Saffron should be consumed moderately
Although saffron is generally used for consumption, excessive intake can be bad for people’s health. It can also be another reason why it’s expensive.
Usually, when a person consumes too much saffron, some side effects would be allergic reactions, dizziness, and nausea.
When used as an ingredient for a big serving, use a reasonable amount of saffron, just enough to cover, and let the taste incorporate with the whole dish. On the other hand, if used as medicine, ensure to follow the prescription, but if there’s not, around 1.5g would suffice.
We hope this article helps you get to know more about saffron. If you want to add more facts about this incredible spice, kindly leave a comment below!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aliana Baraquio is a web content writer who also loves cooking dishes from different countries. If you want to experience a Barcelona-style restaurant that serves high-quality food, and a modern, contemporary, fresh feel from the south of Europe, visit TAST Catala Spanish Restaurant.