Saffron Threads
Estimated Inventory, oz : 4.00
This item was last sold on : 12/13/24
Description/Taste
Saffron is a spice from the flower of the Saffron Crocus and has a bright orange-yellow or orange-red color. It is the most expensive spice in the world and is valued for its robust flavor and aroma. Saffron threads, also called filaments, are the dried stamens of the saffron flower, in which one flower produces only three stamens. It takes seventy-five thousand of these flowers in order to produce one pound of Saffron threads. The flavor of Saffron provides a sweet grassy flavor to any dish.
Seasons/Availability
Saffron is typically available year-round.
Nutritional Value
Saffron provides a good source of many vitamins and minerals such as: calcium, potassium, copper, iron, zinc and magnesium. It also provides antioxidant, antiseptic and antidepressant qualities. The Saffron spice supplies folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin C and helps to regulate heart rate and blood pressure.
Applications
Saffron is commonly used in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines, which adds a nice yellow color to dishes. Saffron's pungent flavor enhances seafood, stews, soups, paella, rice, sauces and a variety of sweets and bakery goods. Saffron pairs well with lemon, ginger, garlic, thyme and tomatoes. It is best not to use wooden utensils when cooking with this spice, as the flavor is easily absorbed. To store, it is best to keep Saffron in a cool dry place away from direct exposure to light.
Geography/History
The history of the Saffron dates back more than 3,000 years and is believed to have appeared in Crete first. Saffron is the triploid form of a flower species found in Eastern Greece and is known as Crocus cartwrightianus. The word Saffron is derived from the Arabic word for yellow, “zafaran.” Saffron is the most expensive spice in the world. The reason for its strong taste and aroma is the presence of crocin in the flower. Major producers are Greece, Spain, Turkey, Iran, India and Morocco. The United States, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and France are major Saffron importers. In ancient times, Saffron was highly regarded by kings and pharaohs for its aphrodisiac effects. However, large amounts of Saffron can have deadly consequences. Saffron was also used historically to reduce fevers, cramps and topically on bruises and to calm the nervous system.
Featured Restaurants
Restaurants currently purchasing this product as an ingredient for their menu.
| Blue Water Estate Services | Rancho Santa Fe CA | 858-720-9831 |
| Gravity Heights Restaurant and Brewery | San Diego CA | 858-551-5105 |
| University Club | San Diego CA | 619-234-5200 |
| Barrel & Board | San Diego CA | 619-902-4646 |
| The Glen at Scripps Ranch | San Diego CA | 858-444-8500 |
| Juniper & Ivy | San Diego CA | 858-481-3666 |
| Savory Moment (1) | Carlsbad CA | 619-633-8863 |
| Ballast Point Rest. - Miramar | San Diego CA | 858-790-6900 |
| Jake's Del Mar | Del Mar CA | 858-755-2002 |
| Farmer and The Seahorse | San Diego CA | 619-302-3682 |
| Stake Chophouse & Bar | Coronado CA | 619-522-0077 |
| Monteferante Foods | Vista CA | 310-740-0194 |
| Leila | San Diego CA | 619-550-5412 |
| Fairmont Grand Del Mar | San Diego CA | 858-314-1975 |
| Barbarella La Jolla | La Jolla CA | 858-454-7373 |
