Native to western Asia and the Mediterranean regions, early civilizations used saffron as a dye and as a flavoring for wine and food. Saffron spice has as an unmistakable aroma that is musky, sharp and floral with subtle honey undertones. The taste is light, cutting, warm, bitter and it then slowly dissipates from your palette.
There are three main grades of saffron and all are from the world’s largest producer Spain. Spanish Saffron is harvested from the Mancha area is considered the best for aroma, color and flavor, followed by the regions Rio and then Sierra. Further classification is done with the following designated ratings: Very Select, Select, Superior, Medium, Ordinary and Slack. The primary differences between these ratings are the intensity in color, aroma and flavor. The higher grades are also not as readily availability and hence the price is much steeper on these as well.
It takes almost 80,000 saffron crocus or roses to yield just five pounds of stigmas which then produces only 1 lb. of Saffron threads. SpicesInc.com carries the pure Mancha Superior saffron threads as we feel that it offers the greatest combination of quality and value.
Helpful hint: You should protect your Saffron from light and moisture to maintain its superior quality and so we highly recommended that you store your saffron threads in an air-tight jar out of direct light and away from heat.
Some of the most popular recipes with Saffron are Saffron Chicken, Saffron Shrimp and the North African spice blend Charmoula. Use with carrots, chicken, eggs, spinach, and winter squash. Saffron works well in combination with anise, cardamom, cinnamon, fennel, ginger, nutmeg, paprika and pepper.
|
|
E-mail this product to a friend
Spices |
Seasonings |
Organics |
Salt-Free |
Herbs |
Spice Sets |
Gourmet Salts |
Recipes
