Blogs & Recipes
Afghan and Japanese cuisines, despite hailing from opposite corners of the globe, share an intriguing culinary kinship. These seemingly divergent traditions intersect on a universal plane where rice reigns supreme, serving as the cornerstone of countless dishes. Emphasizing the significance of seasonality, both Afghan and Japanese cultures exalt fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, allowing nature's bounty to dictate their culinary creations. An alliance of seasonings and spices, whether Afghan cumin and cardamom or Japanese soy sauce and miso, elevate their dishes to extraordinary heights. The realm of noodles welcomes both, with Afghanistan's 'ashak' paralleling Japan's udon and soba noodles. Grilled meats, from Afghan kebabs to Japanese yakitori, unite in the allure of smoky, charred flavours. Stuffed grape leaves meet sushi rolls, displaying a shared love for wrapping ingredients into harmonious delights. And in the tranquil embrace of tea culture, Afghan green tea finds kinship with Japan's diverse green tea offerings. These shared elements paint a vivid portrait of the culinary universality that transcends borders. For those seeking a creative fusion, consider saffron sushi rolls, where the earthy infusion of saffron imbues a Japanese classic with Afghan intrigue.
In the heart of Afghanistan, the ancient city of Herat comes alive each autumn with a vibrant display of saffron flowers, heralding the beginning of a meticulous and cherished tradition. The delicate process of extracting the Corpus bulbs, the precious red stigmas of the Crocus Sativus flower, is a labor-intensive craft passed down through generations. Herat's saffron farmers, armed with baskets and nimble hands, venture into the fields at dawn to carefully pluck each saffron flower, ensuring the invaluable stigmas remain unharmed. The art of saffron extraction, revered for its pure, hands-on nature, is a testament to the dedication and patience of the region's farmers. With the sun as their ally, the stigmas are gently sun-dried to perfection. It's here, in the embrace of nature and tradition, that the world's most coveted spice, saffron, is born.
Sohan, a traditional Persian saffron brittle toffee, hails from Qom, Iran, with a tale of royal endorsement by Naser al-Din Shah Qajar. Originally crafted by women, Sohan's recipe remained a closely guarded secret, passed down through generations. Its various types include Sohan Halwa, Sohan Asali (honeyed brittle), sesame brittle, and Sohan Gaz (gaz brittle). The mysterious aspect of Sohan lies in the unique methods used to weigh ingredients, ranging from stones to shoes. This exquisite Persian dessert, known for its rich flavors, features a delightful combination of saffron, nuts, honey, and cardamom. It is a symbol of Iranian hospitality, cultural heritage, and festivity, often shared with guests during celebrations and cherished as a piece of Iran's culinary history.
Baklava, deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of Turkey, Greece, and the Middle East, traces its origins to the ancient Assyrian Empire in the eighth century B.C.E. Originally, it consisted of humble flatbreads adorned with chopped nuts, reserved for special occasions, and it gradually spread through ancient lands. Over time, it evolved, with the Ancient Greeks and Romans introducing their own sweet variation called 'placenta cake.' However, its transformation reached its zenith during the Ottoman Empire about 500 years ago, where it gained almost sacred status and featured prominently in Ramadan feasts. This cultural icon wasn't limited to one religious group; it held significance for Ottoman Christians and Jews alike. Today, saffron almond baklava continues this rich tradition, offering a taste of Middle Eastern heritage through its layers of phyllo pastry and saffron-infused almonds, symbolizing centuries of cultural depth and flavor.
Saffron, often referred to as the 'red gold,' isn't just a culinary treasure; it holds the secret to radiant and healthy skin. With its remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, saffron has become a global skincare sensation. The best part? You can harness saffron's magic right at home with these easy DIY skincare recipes. Let's delve into the world of saffron and unveil how it can elevate your skincare routine. From a brightening face mask to a soothing aloe vera gel blend, these recipes promise a natural glow and deep nourishment. Remember, before you embark on this saffron journey, perform a patch test and consult a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns. Let saffron be your skincare ally, and let your skin revel in the goodness of this ancient spice.
Saffron, often referred to as the "red gold," has transcended its traditional culinary and medicinal uses to become a sought-after ingredient in the cosmetics industry. Derived from the dried stigmas of the saffron crocus plant, this vibrant red spice boasts a rich history dating back to Greece and is now cultivated worldwide, including in Iran, Spain, and China. Traditionally known for food coloring and flavoring, saffron has expanded its repertoire to include skincare applications. Scientific research confirms its skin-friendly properties, such as shielding against harmful UV radiation through its antioxidant compound crocin, combating inflammation, facilitating wound healing, and reducing hyperpigmentation. While these benefits are substantiated by studies, saffron's role in skincare is an ongoing area of exploration, necessitating further human research for comprehensive validation. However, it remains a promising natural resource for enhancing skin health and addressing common skin concerns, adding depth to the evolving field of skincare.