Saffron — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Saffron threads should be vibrant red with a slight orange tinge, indicating their quality and potency. The threads should be dry and brittle to the touch, releasing a pungent, honey-like aroma when warmed between fingers.

Avoid saffron that is yellowish or has a faded color, as this indicates it may be adulterated or of lower quality. Saffron that is powdery or smells musty should also be avoided, as these conditions suggest it has been improperly stored or is past its prime.

Saffron should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Keeping it in the pantry helps preserve its delicate flavor and aroma for up to two years. Proper storage ensures that saffron remains potent.

Exposure to light and air can cause saffron to lose its potency. Avoid storing it in clear containers or near heat sources, as this can degrade its quality. Always ensure the container is tightly sealed to maintain its freshness and effectiveness.

Saffron can last for 2-3 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. For the best flavor, use it within 1-2 years.

Leftover saffron can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, saffron adds a luxurious, golden hue and a unique, aromatic flavor to dishes like risottos, paellas, soups, and baked goods. It’s often steeped in warm liquid before being added to dishes to fully release its color and flavor.

Beyond cooking, saffron has several traditional uses. It can be used in DIY beauty treatments, such as mixing it with milk or honey to create a brightening face mask that helps to even out skin tone. Saffron can also be used in homemade remedies, such as steeping it in tea to help relieve stress and improve mood. Additionally, saffron can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics or crafts, giving them a vibrant yellow color. Some people also use saffron in homemade perfumes or potpourri for its delicate, floral fragrance.

Saffron is a delicate spice known for its rich color and aroma, rich in antioxidants, supporting immune health by protecting cells from oxidative damage. It may help improve mental health by reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Saffron also has anti-inflammatory properties that support heart health by improving circulation. Although expensive, small amounts add a distinctive flavor and color to dishes while providing health benefits.