Saffron

Crocus sativus Spice, Herb & Seasoning

Saffron Spice, Herb & Seasoning

At a Glance

  • Category Spice, Herb & Seasoning

The Forktionary Angle

"Unveiling the allure of the "golden spice," a tiny thread capable of transforming dishes with its unparalleled color, aroma, and flavor."

Definition

The world's most expensive spice, derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, known for its distinctive aroma, vibrant color, and subtly sweet, hay-like flavor.

Color Imparting Compound Crocin
Flowers per Gram 150-200 flowers
Primary Cultivation Iran (~90% global)

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Saffron are:

Sweet Hay-like Floral Subtle Honey Earthy

Chef’s Secret

Always steep saffron threads in a small amount of warm liquid (water, broth, or milk) for 10-15 minutes before adding to dishes to maximize color and flavor extraction.

Best Substitutes

Turmeric

for color, not flavor, use sparingly

Safflower (for color, not flavor) - *No direct 1:1 flavor substitute*

Buying Guide

Purchase whole threads, not powder, from reputable sources. Look for deep red stigmas with minimal orange/yellow. Store in an airtight container away from light.

Recipes Using Saffron

Cuisine Preparation Asian For 1 Or 2

Basmati Rice With Vegetables

Experience the vibrant flavors of India with this fragrant Basmati rice dish! Perfectly cooked basmati rice infused with warming spices and tender peas, creating a quick and delicious weeknight meal. A simple yet impressive recipe, perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

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Chicken Occasion Easy Dinner Party

Andreas Viestad's Chicken With Saffron And Cinnamon

Transport your taste buds to medieval Iceland with this exquisite chicken recipe from culinary master Andreas Viestad! Adapted from an ancient cookbook, this dish boasts a luxurious blend of saffron and cinnamon, creating a surprisingly balanced and flavorful experience. The skin-on chicken is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture. Marinate for a deeper flavor (optional, adds to prep time). Perfect for a special occasion or when you crave a taste of history!

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Very Low Carbs Very Low Carbs Main Ingredient Low Calorie

Algerian Chicken And Olive Stew

Experience the vibrant flavors of Algeria with this authentic Djej b'l-Qasbour recipe! This fragrant chicken and olive stew is infused with warming saffron and zesty cilantro. Tender chicken simmers in a rich broth, alongside briny olives, creating a comforting dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. Serve it over fluffy couscous or rice for a complete and satisfying meal. #AlgerianFood #ChickenStew #NorthAfricanCuisine #SaffronRecipe #OliveRecipe #CouscousRecipe #EasyRecipe

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Main Ingredient Time To Make Chicken Meat

Argana's Moroccan Chicken

Unlock the secrets to authentic Moroccan cuisine with this copycat recipe inspired by Argana restaurant! Tender chicken simmers in a fragrant blend of warming spices, olives, and preserved lemon. This rich and flavorful dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight meal. Get ready to transport your taste buds to the vibrant souks of Marrakech!

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Diabetic Main Ingredient 3 Steps Or Less Time To Make

Barley Stew With Saffron And Chickpeas

This hearty and flavorful Barley Stew, inspired by Canadian chef Ricardo, is a family-friendly recipe that's easily customizable! Enjoy it as a vegetarian delight with vegetable broth or elevate it to a protein-packed meal by adding shrimp at the end. Bursting with saffron's vibrant color and the comforting flavors of barley and chickpeas, this stew is so delicious, even babies will love it! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner.

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Course Main Dish Healthy 2 Main Ingredient

Authentic Spanish Paella

Master the art of Paella with this incredible recipe! Developed over a year of experimentation, this recipe delivers an authentic Spanish Paella experience, perfect for a crowd. Cooked in an 18" paella pan over an open flame (a Weber grill is ideal!), this recipe blends succulent seafood and tender meats for a truly unforgettable flavor. While purists debate the meat and seafood combination, our experience across Spain shows this delicious mix is widely enjoyed. Easily adaptable for smaller stovetop pans – simply halve the recipe. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this vibrant and flavorful masterpiece!

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60 Minutes Or Less Easy Free Of Something Egg Free

Balalit Saweeya Or Seviyan Sweet Vermicelli Breakfast

Indulge in this gluten-free Balalit Saweeya, a beloved Arabian Gulf breakfast or dessert traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan in Kuwait, UAE, Oman, and beyond! This sweet vermicelli treat offers a unique flavor profile, sometimes enhanced with savory onion and egg (optional). Prepare to be amazed by its irresistible golden-brown crispiness and aromatic sweetness. A perfect way to start your day or end a Ramadan feast!

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Equipment Potatoes North American Number Of Servings

Amish Mashed Potato Filling Dressing

Indulge in the ultimate Thanksgiving comfort food: Amish Mashed Potato Filling Dressing! This recipe creates two generous casseroles (or one 9x13 inch pan) of creamy, savory goodness, perfect for your holiday feast or any weeknight dinner. Fluffy mashed potatoes meet tender celery, sweet onions, and a hint of saffron for an unforgettable flavor explosion. Get ready for rave reviews!

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Potatoes Brunch 4 Hours Or Less Bananas

Aji De Carne Bolivian Pork And Bananas

Experience the explosive flavors of Bolivia with this Aji de Carne! A sweet and spicy pork stew, originally featured in Eat Low Fat Digest in the early 90s, this recipe delivers a mouthwatering blend of sweet bananas and fiery chiles. Perfect for a dinner party, serve this medium-heat, sweet-heat masterpiece with a refreshing salad, slaw, chilled fruit, and a side of creamy corn pudding. Inspired by Chile Pepper magazine's "Hot and Spicy Latin Dishes" collection (April 1995).

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Low Sodium Breakfast Preparation Low Sodium

Berber Tagine Omelette

A vibrant and flavorful Moroccan-inspired omelette baked in a tagine! This recipe combines the aromatic spices of Berber cuisine with the simplicity of an omelette for a truly unique and delicious dish. Fresh cilantro (coriander) adds a burst of freshness, while slow-cooked onions and tomatoes create a rich and savory base. Perfect for a weekend brunch or a light dinner.

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Cod Main Dish Vegetables Saltwater Fish

Bailey's Bouillabaisse Fish Stew

Dive into a heartwarming bowl of Bailey's Bouillabaisse Fish Stew! This rescued recipe is bursting with fresh seafood flavors and creamy texture. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying meal in under an hour. Get ready to experience a taste of the sea with this upgraded classic.

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Dietary Meat Seasonal Dietary

Army Soup

A hearty and flavorful Spanish stew, lovingly nicknamed "Army Soup," this recipe evokes nostalgic memories of family and tradition. My dad, a Spanish soldier, enjoyed this comforting dish daily, and now it's a beloved staple in my own home. Simple ingredients create a rich and satisfying broth perfect for chilly evenings. This updated recipe includes precise measurements and cooking instructions for pressure cooker and stovetop methods.

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4 Hours Or Less Middle Eastern Course Cuisine

Al Kabsa Traditional Saudi Rice Chicken Dish

Experience the rich flavors of authentic Al Kabsa, a traditional Saudi Arabian dish! This recipe features tender chicken simmered in a fragrant blend of spices and served over fluffy rice. A delightful variation on this classic, perfect for a flavorful weeknight meal or a special occasion. Get ready to savor the aromatic spices and succulent chicken in this easy-to-follow recipe. Discover the magic of Al Kabsa today!

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Meat Main Dish Preparation Course

Bejeweled Chicken And Saffron Rice

A vibrant and flavorful dish! This colorful chicken and saffron rice recipe transforms pantry staples into a culinary masterpiece. Sweet pimentos, juicy chicken, and fragrant saffron create a symphony of taste and texture. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Preparation Pasta Rice And Grains Rice Equipment

Arroz Con Pollo Baked Chicken And Rice

One-pan wonder! This incredibly flavorful Arroz con Pollo recipe is baked to perfection in a large oven-safe skillet for a stunning and effortless meal. Juicy chicken, tender rice, and vibrant spices create a dish the whole family will crave. Skip the dishes and enjoy a delicious, easy cleanup!

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Iranian Persian Cuisine Asian Low Cholesterol

Adas Polo Persian Rice With Lentils

Experience the rich flavors of Persia with this incredible Adas Polo recipe! This hearty and aromatic dish combines fluffy basmati rice, savory lentils, sweet caramelized onions, and plump raisins, all infused with warming spices. Perfect served alongside succulent chicken or lamb, or enjoyed as a satisfying vegetarian option. This easy-to-follow recipe will transport your taste buds to the heart of Iran!

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Dietary Easy Preparation Soups Stews

Azore Style Feijos Beans

Transport your taste buds to the Portuguese Azores with this authentic Feijoada recipe, passed down through generations! This hearty bean soup, brimming with savory spices, evokes the romance of the spice trade. While traditionally made with pink beans (which we highly recommend!), you can easily adapt this recipe to your preferred bean variety. Prepare to be enchanted by the irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen as this flavorful vegetarian masterpiece simmers to perfection.

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For 1 Or 2 Course Low Sodium Preparation

Beef And Prune Tagine

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant souks of Morocco with this authentic Beef and Prune Tagine! Adapted from a family recipe perfected during trips to Morocco, this slow-cooked masterpiece boasts tender beef, sweet prunes, and fragrant spices. Serve with fluffy couscous or rice for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Easy to follow instructions ensure even beginner cooks can achieve restaurant-quality results.

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