Saffron 101:
Where does saffron threads come from?
where does saffron threads come from?
Saffron threads come from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, commonly known as the saffron crocus. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
The Plant
• Botanical name: Crocus sativus
• Flower color: Purple
• Part used for saffron: The three red stigmas (the female part of the flower)
The Threads
• Each flower produces only three stigmas, which are hand-harvested and carefully dried to become the saffron threads used in cooking and traditional medicine.
Saffron is often called the “red gold” of the spice world—and for good reason. It’s one of the most cherished and expensive spices on the planet, treasured for its aroma, color, health benefits, and deep cultural roots.
Where does saffron Grow?
Saffron grows best in dry, sunny climates with well-drained soil. Major producers include:
• Iran (over 80% of global production)
• Afghanistan (over 10 percent of global production. Especially in Herat, known for very high quality)
• India (Kashmir region)
• Spain (La Mancha)
• Greece and Italy (smaller volumes but traditional)
What Are Saffron Threads Used For?
Saffron threads are used in:
• Cooking (to add color, aroma, and flavor to rice, stews, sauces, desserts, and bread)
• Tea and drinks (saffron tea is used for its calming properties)
• Traditional medicine and supplements (for mood, sleep, and hormonal balance)
• Religious and cultural rituals (especially in Persian, Indian, and Middle Eastern cultures)
How DO you harvest Saffron threads?
These stigmas must be individually plucked by hand, a process requiring incredible patience and precision.
Due to the delicate nature of the flower and stigma, mechanical harvesting is not an option—machines can easily crush or contaminate the precious threads. After harvesting, our farmers gently separate the three red stigmas from each flower by hand. These become the saffron threads you see in our jars. The picture below.
What Is Saffron Good For?
Saffron has been traditionally used to:
• Enhance mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Support better sleep
• Relieve PMS and menstrual symptoms
• Provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits
• Aid digestion and stimulate appetite
What Do Saffron Threads Taste Like?
Saffron threads have a complex, luxurious flavor that’s slightly sweet, earthy, and floral with hints of honey and hay. Some describe it as warm, musky, and slightly bitter. It’s a flavor that transforms a dish with just a pinch.
How Many Saffron Threads in a Gram?
There are approximately 175–275 saffron threads in one gram. Each thread is feather-light, but packed with potent flavor and color.
How Many Saffron Threads in a Teaspoon?
A teaspoon of loosely packed saffron threads contains roughly 75–100 threads, which is about 0.2 grams. That’s enough for multiple servings depending on the dish.
How Many Saffron Threads Per Day?
For culinary or supplemental use, 15–30 threads per day is generally considered safe and effective. This equals about 15–30 mg, which aligns with common clinical research dosages.
Can You Eat Saffron Threads Raw?
Yes, saffron threads are edible raw, but they are rarely eaten directly. To fully enjoy their flavor and benefits, it’s best to steep them in warm liquid (water, milk, or broth) before adding to food or drink.
Are Saffron Threads Edible?
Absolutely. Saffron threads are not just edible—they’re also incredibly beneficial when used correctly. They’re often steeped before being added to rice, tea, baked goods, and even cocktails.
Why Are Saffron Threads So Expensive?
Saffron is expensive due to:
• Labor-intensive harvesting: Each flower must be hand-picked and hand-processed.
• Low yield: It takes 75,000+ flowers to produce just one pound of saffron.
• Delicate handling: From harvest to drying and packing, it requires great care to preserve quality.
• Limited growing regions: It only grows in specific climates like Iran, Afghanistan, India, and parts of Europe.
Are Saffron Threads Worth It?
Yes. Even a small jar can cost more than most other spices. But because you only need a pinch, even a 1-gram jar can be used in 15 to 20 recipes.
What Are the Grades of Saffron Threads?
Saffron is graded based on color, aroma, and content of the red stigmas. The main grades are:
• Super Negin: Long, all-red stigmas with intense aroma and color. Premium grade.
• Negin (Sargol): All-red threads, slightly shorter than Super Negin. Very high quality.
• Pushal: Threads with some yellow style parts attached. More volume but lower potency.
• Dasteh (Bunch): Includes the full stigma (red and yellow parts) often tied in bunches. Traditional style.
• Konj (White): The pale yellow or white root of the stigma—mild in flavor and often considered lower in quality.
How to store Saffron?
• Store in a cool, dark, and dry place (like a pantry or wine cellar)
• Keep it in an airtight glass container, away from moisture and light
• For extra protection, wrap the jar in foil to block sunlight
What are the usage tips for saffron?
• Less is more—a pinch is often enough
• Always soak saffron in warm (not boiling) water, milk, or broth for 5–20 minutes to unlock its full aroma, flavor, and color
• Add both the saffron and the soaking liquid to your dish
What are the Saffron Health and Wellness benefits?
• Saffron to boost mood: Clinical studies show saffron may help ease symptoms of depression and anxiety
• Saffron to help sleep: Used traditionally to calm the mind and promote restful sleep
• Saffron to induce period: Some cultures use saffron as a gentle uterine stimulant (consult your doctor)
• Saffron to treat anxiety: Natural compounds in saffron (like crocin and safranal) may support emotional well-being
What are some cookign tips for saffron?
• Saffron to cook with: Ideal for rice dishes (like paella, biryani, or risotto), soups, stews, breads, desserts, and teas
• Saffron to rice ratio: Use about 15–20 threads (or ¼ tsp of soaked saffron liquid) for 1 cup of rice
• Saffron to turmeric conversion: These are not interchangeable. Turmeric is more bitter and earthy, while saffron is floral, delicate, and luxurious
Can You Grow Saffron?
Yes, you can grow saffron at home if you live in a temperate climate with hot, dry summers and cool winters. You’ll need:
• Saffron crocus bulbs (Corms)
• Well-drained soil and full sun
• Patience: harvest only comes once a year in the fall
- Our Saffron is a treasure cultivated in the vibrant fields of Afghanistan, where ideal climate and rich soil contribute to its exceptional quality. Grown with care and harvested by skilled hands, our saffron embodies the essence of centuries-old traditions and a commitment to excellence.
- Our saffron threads are meticulously handpicked from the delicate stigma of the Crocus sativus flower, ensuring only the finest and most vibrant strands make their way to your kitchen. Each thread holds a world of flavor, fragrance, and vibrant golden color, infusing your culinary creations with a touch of luxury and sophistication.
- With its distinctive aroma and delicate floral notes, our saffron elevates dishes to new heights. It has a complex flavor profile that combines hints of honey, earthiness, and a slight bitter-sweetness. This versatile spice enhances both savory and sweet dishes, from savory rice and aromatic stews to delectable desserts and indulgent beverages.
- We take pride in sourcing saffron directly from local Afghan farmers who employ sustainable agricultural practices. By supporting fair trade principles, we empower farmers and contribute to their livelihoods, promoting a positive impact on local communities.
- Every strand of our saffron represents a dedication to quality, authenticity, and the preservation of cultural heritage. From the vibrant fields of Afghanistan to your kitchen, experience the allure of our saffron as it weaves its magic into your culinary creations, creating memorable moments that transcend taste and aroma.
- Heray Spice farmers co-op is cultivating, growing, and harvesting Saffron since 2007. Heray Spice is one of the only few Afghani companies that import pure Afghanistan saffron to international markets.
- Saffron is famous to be used in rice, bean, tea, paella, curries, chicken, and meat. Some other examples of saffron recipes are saffron risotto, and saffron Tahdig.
- Our harvest time is November - December every year. That is when saffron is being collected by hands.
- Our saffron has no additives, no Artificial Dyes, no preservatives, and it is Gluten Free.
