Saffron

Saffron. The name itself sounds decadent, exotic, alluring. Red strands tinged with yellow; a fiery beauty which humans have found irresistible for millennia. Most people know that saffron is rare and expensive, but many have never had the chance to experience its subtle, sophisticated charms for themselves. For those people, we hope a little history and description of this most prized of all spices will help convince you to take the plunge. Saffron is harvested from Crocus sativus, a flower better known as the “saffron crocus.” Each bloom from this crocus produces three yellow styles, each of which ends with a crimson-red stigma. The combination of golden style and crimson stigma constitute what we know as a saffron thread. These threads are plucked by hand and dried, resulting in a fragrant, beautiful spice that is prized the world over.


Inquiry

Saffron is one of the most precious spices in the world. The threadlike red stigmas and the yellow hue they impart are quite literally the stuff of legend. But what is saffron, exactly? No matter how many tales have been told about the spice, a lot of us still don't know what to do with it or whether its worth the high cost. Here's everything you need to know.

Where does saffron come from?
The spice originates from a flower called crocus sativus—commonly known as the "saffron crocus." It is believed that saffron originated and was first cultivated in Greece, but today the spice is primarily grown in Iran, Greece, Morocco, and India. While micro-scale production of saffron does exist in the United States, most saffron found here is imported.

What does it taste like?
Saffron is extremely subtle and fragrant. The slightly sweet, luxurious taste is totally enigmatic—it's tricky to describe but instantly recognizable in a dish. As annoying as it is to say, you know it when you taste it.

Impressive Health Benefits of Saffron
  • A Powerful Antioxidant
  • May Improve Mood and Treat Depressive Symptoms
  • May Have Cancer-Fighting Properties
  • May Reduce PMS Symptoms
  • May Act as an Aphrodisiac
  • May Reduce Appetite and Aid Weight Loss
  • Easy to Add to Your Diet.