Saffron
Saffron: a concentrated spice that adds flavour, colour or intensity, and allows you to transform a dish with a small amount.
What it offers and why to use it
Saffron: a concentrated spice that adds flavour, colour or intensity, and allows you to transform a dish with a small amount. Start with a small amount and add more to taste. Briefly toasting or adding it to a fat will release the aromas, but avoid burning it, as this can make it bitter.
A concentrated flavour profile that can be warm, spicy, sweet, earthy or smoky.
From shopping to cooking
Choose
When buying saffron, check that it retains its aroma and colour, that the packaging is dry and sealed, and that it does not show any clumping, insects or stale odour.
Store
Store in a cool, dry, dark place. Whole spices retain their aroma for longer than ground spices.
Prepare
Start with a small amount and add more to taste. Briefly toasting or adding it to a fat will release the aromas, but avoid burning it, as this can make it bitter.
How to make the most of it
Good pairings
Pairs well with sauces, vegetables, pulses, rice, meats, fish and marinades.
How to substitute it
If you don't have saffron, substitute with a spice with a similar flavour profile, and add gradually. Intensity and spiciness are not interchangeable.
Recipes with saffron
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