Saffron: What is Saffron​ and why is it so expensive 

What is saffron

Saffron is the highly prized spice that is made from the dried stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower. It is manually harvested from the blooms of saffron crocus, or Crocus sativus. What is known as ‘saffron’ is the flower’s stigma or thread-like substance.

Saffron is known for its distinct golden-yellow color and flavor, it is used in cooking, particularly in Middle Eastern, Indian, and Mediterranean dishes.

Because of its therapeutic qualities, saffron is also used in traditional remedies for a range of illnesses. The entire harvesting of saffron is a labor-intensive process with thousands of flowers needed to create a little amount of this spice. This makes it one of the most precious spices!

How to grow saffron at home​

Growing saffron at home requires the right place and soil. The perfect setup for saffron cultivation needs a sunny spot with healthy, well-drained soil and away from rains. Saffron thrives in the regions with cold winters and hot, dry summers. Saffron requires patience because it develops slowly. Here’s the details!

It needs a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Saffron requires a hot, dry climate with cool winters.

The soil should be loose and well-drained. Saffron doesn’t grow well in rainy or wet places.

In late summer or early fall, plant Crocus sativus bulbs 4-6 inches deep and space them 3-4 inches apart.

Water it from time to time and keep the soil not soggy. Saffron flowers will appear in the fall.

Hand-pick the red stigmas carefully and dry them.

Also Read: 10 Best Saffron Brand in India

In which month to use saffron in pregnancy​

Saffron is usually recommended around the fifth month of the second trimester of pregnancy. It is believed to improve skin tone, increase mood, and aid with digestion. But excessive amounts of intake can cause contractions. Consult a doctor before taking saffron to protect the mother and the baby.

Why is saffron so expensive​

Saffron comes in the list of one of the most expensive spices for its harvesting process. Harvesting saffron is an expensive and time-consuming process from the beginning till end. Each strand is hand-picked from the fragile stigma of Crocus sativus flowers. To make one pound of saffron, roughly 75,000 blooms are needed. Saffron cultivation is fairly rare because of its climate needs. Its unique flavor, aroma, and medicinal benefits offer even more value to this spice.

How to identify original saffron​

To find out if saffron is genuine, use these methods:

Soak a few strands in milk or warm water to check the color. Real saffron will eventually release a golden-yellow colour whereas the synthetic saffron initially produces a dark red tinge.

Real saffron has a rich earthy aroma and a somewhat bitter flavor. Fake saffron might not have a sweet flavor or aroma.

Rub the saffron with your fingertips. Real saffron turns a light orange, while fake saffron stains.

Try for a float test. Real saffron strands sink and break more readily in water than fake ones.

Also Read: Saffron Benefits, Nutrition, Side Effects