Chieftain^® Wild Rice Company

SAFFRON TINS, THREADS

Description:
Saffron comes from the stigma of the saffron crocus which blossoms in the fall.  The Stigma is the female part or pistil of the Saffron plant.  The female pistil has 3 components, the stigma, style and ovary. The pistil has one style that branches into three distinct stigmas. These three stigmas are the Saffron threads. Each crocus flower produces only 3 threads, and it takes over 200,000 stigmas to make 1 lb. of threads!  Saffron (Crocus Sativus) is the most expensive spice in the world, mainly due to its being harvested by hand. The crocus flowers stand about 1 ft. high. The threads of a crocus are deep red and bright orange in color and are about 1" long. The threads have a taste of bitter almonds. Saffron is used to flavor dishes and as a yellow dye. Most of the Saffron sold in the U.S. comes from Spain. Other areas that produce Saffron include Portugal, Italy, France, Turkey and India.

Suggested Use:
Saffron's delicate flavor compliments light meats, fish and poultry. Frequently used to season Pilaf, Italian Risotto and Mexican rice. It's often added to breads like Saffron buns, a traditional part of Swedish Christmas meals. Saffron is directly added to the dish at the beginning of the cooking process.