Saffron is highly prized for its aromatic flavour, vibrant colour, and culinary versatility. It is widely used in various cuisines around the world, particularly in Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Indian, and Spanish dishes. Here are some common ways saffron is used in cooking:
- Infusion: Saffron threads are often steeped in warm liquid, such as water, milk, or broth, to extract its flavour, aroma, and colour. This saffron-infused liquid is then used as a base for various recipes.
- Spice Blends: Saffron is a key ingredient in many spice blends, such as the famous Indian spice blend called “garam masala” or the Spanish spice blend called “paella spice mix.” It adds a distinct flavour and colour to these blends.
- Rice and Grain Dishes: Saffron is commonly used to flavour and colour rice dishes. It is a crucial component in dishes like Spanish paella, Indian biryani, and Persian saffron rice. The saffron is often added to the cooking liquid, imparting a rich yellow hue and a fragrant aroma to the grains.
- Soups and Stews: Saffron can be added to soups, stews, and broths to enhance their flavour and add a touch of colour. It pairs well with seafood-based soups, vegetable soups, and meat stews.
- Desserts and Sweets: Saffron is used in a variety of desserts and sweets. It adds a unique flavour and vibrant yellow colour to dishes like saffron-infused ice creams, cakes, pastries, and puddings.
- Beverages: Saffron can also be used in beverages such as teas, flavoured water, and cocktails. It lends a distinct taste and aroma to these drinks.
When using saffron, it is important to handle it with care. The threads are typically crushed or soaked in a small amount of warm liquid before adding them to recipes. This helps release the flavours and colour compounds. Additionally, saffron is a potent spice, so a little goes a long way. It’s best to start with a small amount and adjust according to taste.
Remember, saffron is quite expensive due to its labour-intensive harvesting process, so it’s often used sparingly and considered a luxury ingredient in many cuisines
