Recipe: Method of Use of Saffron for Chester

Method of Use of Saffron

Best Method:
For every tsp of Saffron that you need to use add 3 tsp of water and using a spoon make sure that the saffron threads get properly soaked, do not crush the threads. Thereafter add the mixture to a tumbler containing about 30-50 ml of lukewarm water and mix thoroughly. Leave the saffron in the tumbler for a minimum of 2 hours. The mixture can be left for up to 12 hrous but 2 hours should give you satisfactory results. Prepare your recipe in the normal fashion and add the contents of the tumbler along with the saffron threads when required. The leaves will expand to 1 1/2 times their dry size. This method has the advantage of letting you show of the full saffron threads in addition to making full use of the Saffron.

Express Method:
If you are in a hurry or have forgotten to soak the saffron in time. Do not despair. Add about 5 tsp of water for every tsp of saffron. Make sure that the threads get properly soaked. Then using the back of a spoon mesh the threads so that a thick paste is formed. You can then add the paste to the dish when required. Use of this method will not allow you to show off the full threads but you will still make full use of the potency of your saffron.

Avoid heating the saffron leaves to crush them as the direct heat causes loss of aroma and flavour.

Remember not to use wooden utensils or spoons or any such absorbent material when handling saffron as a substantial quantity of the saffron would be lost in the process.

Source: Natraj Saffron