Saffron Recipes, Benefits, How to Buy

Here are our best saffron recipes that use the coveted spice to infuse its legendary flavor, imparting great benefits and a taste that makes these recipes a favorite amongst our readers.

If you’re looking for a pinch of elegance to elevate your dish to the next level then just reach out for some saffron.

What is Saffron?

Saffron, also known as crocus sativus, has been valued around the world as a spice, a perfume, a dye and a medicine. Sought after for its subtle, fragrant and luxurious taste, this is by far one of the most precious spices in the world.

It is supposed to have been first cultivated in Greece, and is now mostly grown in Iran, India, Morocco and Spain. Not surprisingly then, it also has earned an essential status in these regional cuisines but also lends sophistication to some of the classic dishes of Europe.

Why is Saffron So Expensive?

The worlds most expensive spice is harvested through a very laborious process that delivers one ounce of saffron from about 1000 flowers! But no worries, when it comes to saffron, a little does go a long way. High quality saffron packs an abundance of sweet floral flavor.

Saffron is harvested by hand from flowers that produce only three threads (stigmas) during the blooming period each year and at a specific time of the day.

Where to Buy Saffron

Saffron is available online at Amazon. Also check your local Persian, Indian, Middle eastern, Mediterranean grocery stores. As well as gourmet grocery stores such as Whole Foods.

The best quality saffron often comes from Iran. What makes Persian saffron superior is its deep color and remarkable aroma. High quality saffron is deep red in color with orange tips. The deeper the color, the better is the quality.

Avoid buying readymade saffron powder as that may be adulterated.

How to use Saffron

To get the most out of your saffron, powder it and steep in hot water. Using a mortar and pestle grind 1 teaspoon of dry saffron threads with a pinch of coarse salt or sugar and dissolve the powder in 2 tablespoons of hot water. Let it soak and cool down to give you a vibrant concentrated extract that will flavor your dishes like no other.

Make sure your hands are very dry when working with saffron and store it in a cool, dry and dark place or in the freezer. The saffron water mentioned above can be stored in the refrigerator for about two weeks.

Saffron Health Benefits

1. Saffron is rich in crocin, crocetin, safranal and kaempferol — compounds known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, anti-carcinogenic properties.
2. This flavorful spice not only makes food beautiful and bright, but may also improve mood. Some studies have shown that saffron may help with treatment of mild to moderate depression. However, more research is required to study this aspect.
3. Several laboratory studies have revealed the anti-carcinogenic potential of saffron and of enhanced sensitivity to some chemotherapy drugs. 
4. Saffron supplements have shown to significantly lower BMI, appetite and central obesity.
5. Some studies have indicated that regular intake of saffron may help treat PMS symptoms, such as anxiety, cravings, pain, irritability, headaches, etc.
6. Other research studies indicate potential health benefits such as inhibition of atherosclerosis, improved insulin sensitivity, therapeutic application in retinal degenerative diseases and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.

Saffron Recipes

Here are some of our best saffron recipes showcasing the lovely spice which enhances taste, flavor, appearance and may also lend some health benefits. Whether you use it for sweet or savory dishes, you will love using this versatile spice. 

Always tailor diet to your own personal needs, consulting with a healthcare professional. And choose your favorite saffron recipe.

1. CHICKEN BIRYANI: This classic Indian dish with tender chicken in layers of fluffy rice, aromatic spices and caramelized onions is elevated up a notch only with the inclusion of saffron.

Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is an aromatic, mouth watering and authentic Indian dish with succulent chicken in layers of fluffy rice, fragrant spices and caramelized onions. This is easier than most recipes, while truly retaining the authentic taste and presented step by step. Cook like a native but with more ease! (See blog post for secret tips)

Check out this recipe

2. BRAISED LAMB SHANKS: A spectacular dish of slow cooked lamb cooked in a fantastic sauce made with Persian spices, saffron, lemon and fragrant herbs.

Persian Braised Lamb Shanks

Braised lamb shanks slow cooked in a fantastic sauce with Persian spices, saffron, lemon juice and herbs makes a spectacular feast. Succulent lamb in an amazingly delicious sauce can also be cooked in oven or crock-pot!! Step by step photos at end of post.

Check out this recipe

3. PERSIAN LOVE CAKE: This super moist cake will absolutely impress with its exotic flavors of saffron, rose and cardamom.

Persian Love Cake

Persian love cake is moist, spongy and will enchant you with its exotic flavors of rose, cardamom and saffron. Luxuriously packed with almonds and sprinkled with pistachios, it is so easy to make!

Check out this recipe

4. ZERESHK POLO:  A royal feast of flavors and textures, this traditional barberry rice is topped with an impressive saffron chicken.

Zereshk Polo (Barberry Rice With Saffron Chicken)

This Zereshk Polo recipe is an adapted version of the classic Persian rice dish. It is a tangy sweet mouth watering feast with plenty of protein, healthy fats and is phytochemical rich!! It is also gluten free. Cook this Barberry Rice with Saffron Chicken and add a touch of delicious opulence to the table at any banquet!

Check out this recipe

5. MOROCCAN CHICKEN PASTILLA: A delicious Moroccan delicacy with shredded chicken subtly flavored with saffron is wrapped in perfectly crisp filo layers.

Easy Moroccan Chicken Pastilla (Skillet Chicken Pie)

Chicken Pastilla, a scrumptious Moroccan delicacy, made easy in a skillet. Tender shredded chicken with aromatic spices wrapped in perfectly crisp pastry layers.

Check out this recipe

6. PERSIAN ZUCCHINI FRITTATA: Easy baked omelette filled with zucchini, aromatic spices and herbs. It has a tender custard like texture and is mildly flavored with saffron.

Persian Baked Zucchini Frittata (Kuku Kadoo)

Persian zucchini frittata (kuku kadoo), the best and easiest baked omelette filled with zucchini, delicious spices and herbs. It is great for breakfast, lunch or dinner. So tender and custard like. Low calorie, low carb and with high quality protein.

Check out this recipe

7. SHRIMP AND RICE WITH HERBS (Meygoo Polo): A fantastic traditional, healthy and flavorful recipe with plenty of herbs and spices. Saffron lends a lovely flavor.

Shrimp and Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)

Persian shrimp and rice is so tasty, healthy and flavorful. With lots of herbs and spices, this is an easy recipe for a happy family dinner. Sneak in whole grains while keeping it tempting!

Check out this recipe

8. HOMEMADE FALOODA RECIPE: This popular summertime treat with layers of rose syrup, jello, sweet basil seeds, creamy milk, ice cream, vermicelli and nuts should be definitely tried with the saffron flavor option.

Best Homemade Falooda Recipe

Falooda is the ultimate Indian summertime treat. Cool and refreshing, this exotic dessert drink with layers of rose syrup, jello, sweet basil seeds, vermicelli, creamy milk, ice cream and nuts will quench your sweet desires, leaving you thirsting for more.

Check out this recipe

9. KHORESHT KADOO: This flavor packed and comforting stew of seared chicken and zucchini, cooked in a tangy tomato based sauce is subtly seasoned with saffron and aromatic spices.

Persian Zucchini Stew (Khoresht Kadoo)

Persian Zucchini Stew is an elegant, flavorful, comforting and nutritious stew of pan seared chicken and roasted zucchini, cooked in a lemony tomato gravy seasoned with exotic spices.

Check out this recipe

10. SAFFRON RICE WITH CHICKEN, YOGURT AND SPINACH: This beautiful and delicious Persian main course referred to as Tahchin e Esfanaj, is made with perfectly fluffy saffron rice.

Saffron Rice with Chicken, Yogurt and Spinach (Tahchin Esfenaj)

Saffron rice with chicken, yogurt and spinach is a classic Persian dish referred to as Tahchin e Esfanaj. It is healthy, gluten free and can be prepared in a rice cooker, on stove or in oven. Elegant, festive and delicious!

Check out this recipe

11. Sweet and Savory Roasted Holiday Nuts: Flavored with cardamom and saffron, this snack is amazingly delicious, while providing plenty of nutrients.

Sweet & Savory Cardamom Maple Roasted Party Nuts

These sweet and savory roasted party nuts with cardamom, saffron and maple syrup are simply divine and irresistible. They are so addictive, that you won’t be able to stop with a handful. Everyone just loves these nuts!

Check out this recipe

12. Saffron Tea: There are three refreshing flavor options for you to try this delectable beverage.

Saffron Tea (Three Ways) & Benefits

Saffron tea with a hint of cinnamon, cardamom, lemon, rose, mint or ginger, along with white tea is a refreshing, and mood boosting beverage. Hot or cold this amazingly delicious tea is sure to soothe you.

Check out this recipe

Saffron Recipe Picks From the Web

• https://www.saveur.com/article/Recipes/Roast-Chicken-with-Saffron-and-Lemons/
• https://www.foodandwine.com/recipes/saffron-orzo
• https://cooking.nytimes.com/recipes/1015184-sauteed-shrimp-with-garlic-and-saffron
• https://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/saffron-shrimp-paella-363379

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