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.
Table of Contents
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
- Saffron is rich in crocin, crocetin, safranal and kaempferol — compounds known to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, anti-carcinogenic properties.
- 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.
- Several laboratory studies have revealed the anti-carcinogenic potential of saffron and of enhanced sensitivity to some chemotherapy drugs.
- Saffron supplements have shown to significantly lower BMI, appetite and central obesity.
- Some studies have indicated that regular intake of saffron may help treat PMS symptoms, such as anxiety, cravings, pain, irritability, headaches, etc.
- 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 fried onions. It is easier than most recipes while retaining the original taste and presented step by step. Cook like a native but with more ease!
Chicken Biryani
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.
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!!
Lamb Shank 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!
Persian Love Cake
4. Zereshk Polo
A royal feast of flavors and textures, this traditional barberry rice is topped with an impressive saffron chicken.
Zereshk Polo (Persian Barberry Rice)
Try this Zereshk Polo, a stunning Persian barberry rice dish. With fluffy basmati rice, tangy red barberries, aromatic spices, and nutty toppings, it's a flavorful and festive delight. Serve it with saffron chicken for a truly lavish Persian feast. I've provided separate ingredient lists for chicken and rice, if you want to make plain barberry rice. Note that some ingredients are common to both recipes.
Zereshk Polo
5. Moroccan Chicken Pastilla
A delicious Moroccan delicacy with shredded chicken subtly flavored with saffron is wrapped in perfectly crisp filo layers.
Chicken Pastilla (Moroccan Skillet Pie)
Chicken Pastilla, a scrumptious Moroccan delicacy, made easy in a skillet. Tender shredded chicken with aromatic spices wrapped in perfectly crisp pastry layers.
Pastilla
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.
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.
Zucchini Frittata
7. Shrimp and Rice with Herbs(Meygoo Polo)
A fantastic traditional, healthy and flavorful recipe with plenty ofherbs and spices. Saffron lends a lovely flavor.
Shrimp Rice with Herbs (Meygoo Polo)
Shrimp rice is so delicious, healthy and easy. This Persian style rice with lots of herbs and spices, makes a happy family dinner. Sneak in whole grains while still keeping it tempting!
Shrimp and Rice 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.
Falooda 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.
Zucchini Stew With Chicken (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.
Zucchini Stew
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!
Saffron Chicken and Rice
11. Sweet and Savory Roasted Holiday Nuts
Flavored with cardamom and saffron, this snack is amazingly delicious, while providing plenty of nutrients.
Sweet & Savory 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!
Holiday Nuts
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.
Saffron Tea
13. Saffron Chicken
Juicy chicken meets a flavorful saffron-infused marinade, boasting a vibrant golden hue and enticing aroma.
Saffron Chicken Recipe
This elegant Saffron Chicken is a masterpiece that combines juicy chicken with the rich flavors of saffron-infused marinade. With its vibrant golden hue and enticing aroma, it is the perfect centerpiece for a delicious feast.
Saffron Chicken
14. Sabzi Polo
A classic Persian herb rice, so fragrant, and popular at the Persian new year, Nowruz.
Sabzi Polo (Persian Herb Rice)
Sabzi polo, a classic Persian herb rice is wonderfully fragrant and delicious. This fluffy rice dish is loaded with herbs and popular at the Persian new year, Nowruz. The crowning glory is the crunchy golden crust known as tahdig.
Sabzi Polo
Saffron Recipe Picks From The Web
- Roast Chicken with Saffron and Lemons
- Saffron Orzo
- Sauteed Shrimp with Garlic and Saffron
- Saffron Shrimp Paella
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