How did our beloved red gold Saffron/ Zaffran/ Kesar come to Kashmir?
Well there is no single answer but there are many local tales of how Saffron got to Kashmir. One of the stories claims that Persians brought it to India around 500 B.C., for trade. Another story dates back to the 12th century, while travelling when Sheikh Sharif-u-din Wali and Khawaja Masood Wali both Sufi saints fell ill a local chief cured them of their sickness and they presented him with a saffron bulb. A third dates the spice back to the Hindu Tantric kings, when it was used to create potions that incited love.
Some things that you should know about Kashmiri Saffron
Saffron is the most precious spice in the world
Most of Kashmir's saffron is grown in Pampore district of Kashmir
Saffron is derived from Crocus Sativus flower commonly known as Saffron Crocus
A single flower has three strands
Varieties of Saffron: Different grades of Saffron are derived from each stigma of saffron flower depending on the part of stigma.
Lacha Saffron : The full stigma of the Crocus flower(Saffron Flower). It is considered lesser in quality as compared to Mongra saffron.
Mongra Saffron : Mongra is the top part of Lacha i.e. deep crimson-red thread. Mainly used for cooking filled with essential nutrients. Mongra is the purest form of Saffron and most expensive of all the varients.
Zarda Saffron : Zarda is the bottom part of Lacha and is yellow colored. Mainly used in skincare products.
What are the three things that matter while buying Saffron
Crocin (Color) : Crocin is associated with the color of the saffron.
Safranal (Aroma) : Safranal is responsible for the smell of your Saffron. If levels of Safranal is low, you will be able to taste the Saffron but the aroma wont be strong.
Picocrocin (Flavor) : Picocrocin is important for the flavor the saffron. For high quality saffron Picocrocin should be high.
Saffron of the World and what are the differences
India: Kashmiri saffron has the darkest red-crimson color and has strong flavor, aroma and color. The strands are thicker than Saffron from other countries.
Iran: Largest Saffron producing country in the world. Iran /Persian Saffron threads are crimson in color with a slightly lighter orange-red color on the tips. This Saffron has strong and fresh aroma.
Greece and Spain: Spanish saffron is good quality saffron however Spain produces very less quantities of Saffron and majority of Saffron is imported from Iran repackaged in Spain.
Benefits of using Saffron
Adds another dimension to your cooking: Kashmiri saffron is renowned for its exceptional sweet, floral, and slightly earthy flavor and aroma. Saffron adds a unique and pleasant taste to a wide range of dishes
Medicinal Properties: Saffron has been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its potential health benefits. It contains several bioactive compounds, including crocin, safranal, and picrocrocin, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and mood-enhancing properties.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Saffron has potent antioxidant properties that help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals. Saffron's anti-inflammatory effects may also contribute to its potential health benefits, as chronic inflammation is linked to various diseases.
Skincare Benefits: Kashmiri saffron has skin-enhancing properties.
Culinary: Kashmiri saffron is a versatile spice used in various culinary preparations. It is a important ingredient in biryani, as well as in desserts such as kheer (rice pudding), ice cream, and cakes. The vibrant golden color and the sweet aroma it imparts to dishes makes them very appealing.
I think this information will give you a brief idea of Saffron and now don't forget to add Saffron to your biryani, tea, rice, sweet dish and enjoy great taste, aroma and natural color.
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