Saffron Tips For Usage

Tips For Usage (Cooking/Eating)

Saffron is a versatile spice that can add a new dimension to both savory and sweet dishes. Not only does it impart a distinct flavor and aroma, it also makes your dish look more presentable. Saffron can be used in thread or ground form depending upon the recipe. If you are using saffron to garnish your dish and wish to create a visual impression, you can use threads. On the other hand, if you want the saffron to blend with your dish such that it is not obvious to the eye, you should go for its powdered form. The cooking tips given below will enable you to reap the maximum benefits from this magical spice.

You can prepare your own powdered saffron instead of buying it from a supplier. You can do this by grinding the saffron threads with mortar and pestle. If you find it difficult to grind the threads due to its moisture content, add a pinch of sugar grains and then grind. This will make grinding easier without affecting your recipe.You can make liquid saffron by adding 3 to 5 teaspoons of warm or boiling water to powdered saffron and allow it to infuse for 5 to 10 minutes. It can be stored in a jar for a few weeks to be used when needed. Liquid saffron can also be prepared with milk, vinegar, or wine instead of water. It is usually added to other ingredients towards the end of cooking to draw out the color and disperse the flavor throughout the dish.Saffron is used to prepare saffron rice.

Soak rice in cold water for 30 minutes

Soak saffron threads in two teaspoons of boiling water.Melt some butter in a saucepan over medium heat.Add cardamom, cloves, and cinnamon and fry for 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.Stir in onion and sauté.Stir in rice at low heat.Allow it to simmer for 5 minutes, stirring continuously.Pour in the boiling broth and stir it in salt and saffron.Cover and cook the rice until the liquid is absorbed.This will take about 40 minutes.Saffron can be used to prepare delicious chicken in saffron cream sauce.Season the fried chicken with salt and pepperMake sure it’s fried in butter and is brown on all sidesSprinkle some thyme and bay leafNow add saffron and creamCover the skillet and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.Taste the sauce and add more salt and pepper if needed.Besides savoury dishes, saffron can be added to desserts as well. In India, saffron strands are often added to kheer, rasmalai, and even lassi to impart its distinct flavor and fragrant aroma. Saffron is also used as an ingredient in preparing gulab jamuns.You can prepare saffron tea by adding 5 to 10 strands of saffron to the boiling water while making your tea. This tea will have the distinct fragrant aroma of saffron.