what is saffron that is used for cooking?

Answer 1

Saffron - is the world's most expensive spice. Saffron are the stigmas from the crocus sativus flower. There are only 3 stigmas (referred to as saffron threads) per flower. Saffron is hand harvested so you can understand why it is so prized and so expensive. It takes about 13,125 threads to weigh one ounce.

How To Use
The most important rule is "don't use too much". A very little bit of saffron goes a long way and if overused becomes overpowering and leaves a "medicinal" flavor.

There are several ways to prepare saffron for use. Consult your recipe for specific recommendations. Basic methods include:

Soak Threads - The threads are soaked in liquid which can be broth, water, wine then the infusion is added to the dish.

Method: crush threads with your fingers or use a tiny mortar and pestle. Add the saffron to the liquid and soak for 5 - 20 minutes. Add the "tea" to your recipe.

Toast Threads - Many traditional paella recipes recommend toasting the saffron before use.

Method: Carefully toast threads in a medium-hot heavy skillet (cast iron is good) do not allow to burn. Then grind threads into a powder and use as directed in the recipe.

Crumble and Use - Sometimes recipes that use a lot of liquid like soups, or salad dressings just say to crumble the threads and add directly to the dish. Soaking, even for a few minutes works better, provides better distribution of color and a more robust flavor.

Answer 2

Saffron is actually the dried stigmas of a certain variety of the crocus flower. The stigmas are the little antennae-like things in the middle of the flower. There are only three stigmas in each flower and they have to be plucked out by hand. That is why saffron is so expensive. But it is also soooooo good.

Answer 3

Here's a list of many dishes that use saffron. You use as much as required by the individual recipe, usually very little. Typically you grind it prior to adding it, so that it diffuses really well. My mom took a plastic sandwich baggie (don't open it!), placed some saffron on the outside, folded it up, used a rolling pin on it, mashed it up, then transferred the saffron to the dish.

Answer 4

Saffron is part of a flower that is used to flavor things in food. You can flavor broth or cream and infuse the saffron flavor. It is good and only a pinch is need because it is expensive.

Answer 5

Saffron is a very expensive spice. The spice is made from the inner part of the bloom of a bulb flower.

Answer 6

Saffron is a very rare and expensive spice.

Answer 7

It's the world's most expensive spice. It can add a whole new dimension in flavor , but it isn't suited for all recipes.

Answer 8

Its a great spice/seasoning for dry rub for bbq ribs and also in chilli so I have found from experimenting