My wonderful husband knows that I love to cook and I also love to try new things. He’s also a bit of a shopaholic and once in a while that plays in my favor. So last week, he was wandering through Costco and ran across Saffron. I don’t know what possessed him, but he thought it would be a nice little present for me and it was a pleasant surprise! I’ve never cooked with it and honestly, I don’t know if I’ve ever eaten it. Well I did both last night and it was delicious!!!
So what is Saffron?
Saffron is a plant. The dried “stigma” or thread-like parts of the flower are used to make the spice. Saffron is highly labor intensive to harvest, as the stigma are picked by hand, so it is considered one of the most expensive spices in the world. I actually thought the Costco price (which my husband claimed was $12) was quite reasonable.
Are there health benefits to eating Saffron?
According to Webmd.com, Saffron is good for many health conditions; asthma, sleep disorders, cancer, depression, heartburn, dry skin and it’s an aphrodisiac!!!! Sounds good to me!
What are some ways to cook with Saffron?
Saffron is frequently used in rice and seafood dishes, including paella. Paella is definitely on my list of dishes to try making, especially now that I have Saffron! Last night, I made a basic risotto and added saffron and kale. It was delicious! More so than usual!
I hope you’ll give this exotic spice a try! Branch out and experiment! Play in the kitchen! It’s fun!
Inside Kel's Kitchen 
Saffron is one of my favorite spices! I found a packet of threads in Panama while visiting there a few years ago and try to buy it every time I get back there…It adds a little something something to every dish that includes it! 🙂
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What kind dishes do you use it in?
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Saffron rice, paella, risotto, roasted potatoes, with fish, lightly sprinkled on roasted vegetables
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Thanks! I’ll have to try some of those.
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