Fragrant, thread-like, hand-picked stigmas of the autumn Crocus sativus plant, originating in the eastern Mediterranean, now grown as well in Spain, France, and South America It has a characteristic pungent aroma and flavor and bright yellow color It is also very expensive and used sparingly It takes only a few threads to achieve the desired flavor and color Saffron is indispensable in paella and bouillabaisse A good substitute for the yellow color is turmeric, though nothing can replace its unique flavor [Sp ] azafrán
- Saffron belongs to the Iridaceae family, which includes irises and crocuses Saffron consists of the deep orange-colored stamens of the crocus It takes approximately 35,000 flowers to produce a pound of saffron The price of that pound of dried threads fluctuates between $4,250 00 and $4,500 00
An expensive spice made from the stigmas of the crocus flour Saffron gives food a yellow color and exotic flavor The spice can usually be found powdered or as whole threads (stigmas) Recipe: Paella
The world's most expensive spice is the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus, which is native to Asia Minor It takes 2,50,000 flowers to make just 450 g / 1 lb saffron Fortunately, only a small quantity of saffron is needed to flavour and colour a dish, whether sweet or savoury Saffron is sold as strands and in powder form, and has a beautiful flavour and aroma