The most expensive spice!

The most expensive spice!

Saffron as we all know is the rockstar of the spice box. It’s used only in special dishes cooked on special occasions. It comes in a little box that occupies prime place in a kitchen. What makes this spice so expensive and special? Here’s a compilation of the most common queries we’ve received for saffron, we hope somewhere it answers all your questions about this star spice as well.

Where does saffron come from?

Saffron filaments or threads are the dried stigmas of the flower - Crocus Sativus Linneaus. Around 300 tons of saffron is produced worldwide every year in Iran, Spain, India, Greece, Turkey and Morocco. India is the third largest producer after Iran and Spain.

Why is saffron the most expensive spice?

Saffron is an extremely labour intensive crop. Only 500 hundred grams of saffron filaments or strands is produced out of 75,000 purple saffron crocus dried stigmas. Every center of the flower has three tiny thread like stigmas. Harvesting these feather-light stigmas is a back-breaking task and are also individually handpicked in autumn only when the flowers fully open.

Is there any chemical substitute for saffron?

There is no substitute for this magical herb. Its distinctive and aromatic flavour is impossible to create chemically, so far.

What is the best way to use saffron?

A pinch of saffron soaked in hot milk or water is the most effective way to maximize the flavour, aroma and taste.

How can I know if the saffron I’m buying is genuine?

Ensure that the saffron you buy has a distinct aroma. Its thread should be long, fine and separate from each other. The color should be vivid, bright red and when soaked in hot water or milk, the liquid should turn bright yellow.

Why is saffron stored safe in a tiny box?

Store saffron in an airtight container and keep it in a dry area away from direct light for maximum flavours. Unlike other herbs and spices, this is most sensitive to light.

What are the health benefits of saffron?

Add a pinch of saffron to a cup of hot milk or water and drink before bedtime and you surely will wake up healthy and revitalized. Apart from its coloring and aromatic properties, saffron is long been known as a remedy for many health problems including insomnia, arthritis, digestion problems, periodical pains, etc.

Dishes with saffron

Create a whole new range of dishes using this wonder ingredient. Create a perfect festive mood with one of my all-time favorite recipes – kesari shrikhand. Also try saffron vegetable pulao, kesari sandesh. Browse SanjeevKapoor.com for more saffron recipes this festive season.