The best saffron and its specifications

Saffron is one of the world’s most expensive spices.
The thread-like red stigmas — and the yellow color they give it — are literally legendary. But what exactly is red gold?
No matter how many stories are told about this spice, many of us still don’t know what to do with it or whether it’s worth the high price tag. Here’s everything you need to know. Saffron King World is the best exporter of this red gold.

Where does saffron come from?

The spice comes from a flower called crocus sativus — commonly known as “saffron crocus.” Saffron is believed to have first originated and been cultivated in Greece, but today it’s primarily grown in Iran, Greece, Afghanistan, Morocco, and India. While there is small-scale production of red gold in the United States, most of the saffron available here is imported.

What does it taste like?

Saffron is extremely subtle and fragrant.
The slightly sweet, luxurious taste is totally enigmatic—it’s tricky to describe but instantly recognizable in a dish.
As annoying as it is to say, you know it when you taste it.

Why is it so expensive?

Each flower produces only three filaments (stigmas) and blooms for only one week each year.
This product must be picked—by hand!—in the mid-morning, when the flowers are still closed to protect the delicate stigmas inside.
It takes about 1,000 flowers to produce just one ounce of this product. That’s why you’ll pay $10 to $13 per gram to buy real saffron.
To make sure you’re getting the best product, smell it—it should smell slightly like sweet hay. It should also have all the stigmas red and no yellow stamens.

Where do I buy it ?

If possible, check your local Middle Eastern grocer.
King Company is the world’s saffron in Europe (the Netherlands and …) – Asia (Iran – Afghanistan, …) in Arab countries (Dubai, etc.).
Saffron King Company offers the best 100% organic and pure saffron.

How do I store saffron?

Keep threads in a cool, dry, dark place (you can put it in the freezer for up to a year).
The juice of this product can be stored in the refrigerator in a sealed container for up to three weeks.