In this short article, we will answer the question “What is the saffron price?” and will show you contextual information about this expansive, delicious, colourful and nutritional ingredient.
What is the saffron price?
Saffron costs between $1,100 and $11,000 per kilogramme at retail or wholesale pricing. In 1974, the typical retail price in Western nations was $2,200/kg ($1,000/lb). It is pricey. In actuality, it is very, very pricey.
Among the most pricey and precious ingredients in the world, the cuisine is saffron. Some claim that a gramme of the condiment is more valuable than the equivalent weight in… gold! Are you serious?
Why does saffron cost so much?
Here is the justification: Saffron is made from the pistil of the Crocus sativus flower, which is also where it gets its distinctive aroma, colour, and flavour. Approximately 250,000 blossoms must be gathered manually to generate one kilogramme of the spice.
Therefore, it seems obvious that any dish with Asian spices in it would have a higher value. For reference, the most expensive milkshake in the world, which was only available in England for one day, cost 50 pounds. What made it so special? Saffron.
It is noteworthy that authentic saffron and fake turmeric should not be confused, specifically because of the significant importance of spice.
Turmeric is a rhizome, which is a plant’s underground stem, not a root. It is typically offered dehydrated and also in powder form, is inexpensive, and is either dark yellow or orange. Curcumin, a very potent antioxidant, is present.
But why is pistil saffron healthy in the first place? The advantages of the herb, which has been used medicinally for millennia, have been investigated regarding the prevention of ovarian, colon, and liver cancer.
In addition to assisting in the prevention of degenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, its antioxidants also function admirably with the nervous system and assist retain and enhance memory.
Need more? According to studies, turmeric has potent antidepressant properties. It works on the digestive system and aids those who have issues with their appetite.
When combined with milk, it helps to lessen acne and minimise skin blemishes because of its antimicrobial characteristics. Additionally, it provides vitamins B2 and A.
Where does saffron come from?
Saffron originates in East Asia, although it first achieved popularity in the Middle East. Spice has been used as medicine for as long as writing has existed.
Some of the most frequent uses included treating hangovers, sleeplessness, and gastrointestinal problems. Later, it was employed as a dye, with Leonardo da Vinci among its users.
Crocin, a chemical found in saffron, was perfect for fresco painting. The spice has already been employed in recipes honouring fertility Goddesses and even as a sexual stimulant. However, saffron only really became well-known in the kitchen.
Spain currently produces and consumes most of the spice (the famous Valencian paellas contain a good amount of the spice). Other producing nations include India, Iran, Greece, Italy, and Turkey.
The best cooks in the world, in some chefs’ opinions, are from Spain and Italy. Although the so-called “fake saffron” produced in India and Iran is of high quality, it cannot be compared to the saffron sold in Europe.
What stores sell turmeric?
Although saffron may be found in supermarkets and speciality shops in powdered or dehydrated form, it is best to buy it whole to prevent mixing it with other ingredients of lower quality or even with other foods like turmeric.
Only 10 filaments are required to colour and scent a dish with an unpleasant flavour. However, take care because this product is prone to drying up and losing flavour, so you must have faith in the seller at the time of purchase.
How is saffron used?
Because of the concentrated concentration of distinct flavours and scents, it is required to dissolve the saffron in water before preparing the dishes to benefit from all the qualities of the spice. Saffron adds rich aromas and can’t be substituted in many dishes.
When using it, though, caution is advised because excessive amounts can taint a dish. With the culinary “jewel,” dishes like risotto, spaghetti, cookies, cakes, and even panettone can be made.
Of course, sauces and other food accompaniments like pasta and risotto are the finest places to use saffron in recipes. All foods taste great when paired with saffron cream, but risotto is possibly the finest.
Conclusion:
In this short article, we answered the question “What is the saffron price?” and have shown you contextual information about this expansive, delicious, colourful and nutritional ingredient.