Check out our guide to saffron, including where to buy it and plenty of recipe inspiration, then read about turmeric, harissa and curry leaves.

What is saffron?

Saffron is the stigma (part of the reproductive system of a flower) from the crocus. Hand-harvested, it comes in strands and is the most expensive spice by weight. Saffron imparts a vivid golden colour to food and its unique flavour is prized across Eastern Asia, Persia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean.

Where to buy saffron

Carmencita saffron, £6.99/0.37g, olive shop

East End Saffron, £2.75/1g, Tesco

D.O. La Mancha Spanish Saffron, £13.99/1g, Amazon


Saffron recipes

Check out plenty more saffron recipe inspiration.

Saffron risotto

This soothing risotto is delicious on its own, or served with a roast chicken and the roasting juices from the tin. An impressive entertaining idea, if you've got friends round for dinner.

An aerial shot of saffron-coloured risotto on a white plate

Crumbed asparagus with saffron yogurt

Here, asparagus is crumbed to add a wonderful texture. The saffron yogurt is a simple version of an aïoli but Middle Eastern style.

Breaded Asparagus Recipe with Saffron Yogurt

Preserved lemon poussin with tabbouleh and saffron yogurt

Check out this poussin recipe with preserved lemons. This easy dish makes a great alternative to any weekend roast recipe. Serve with freshly chopped tabbouleh and smooth saffron yogurt.

Poussin Recipe with Preserved Lemons and Tabbouleh

Crab and saffron pasta

Feeling fancy? Impress with this sophisticated linguine dish, flecked with fresh crabmeat, red chilli, lemon zest and saffron.

A bowl of crab and saffron linguine

Shrimp and saffron butter orecchiette

A sophisticated Italian-style dinner, this saffron-spiked pasta dish pairs orecchiette with buttery brown shrimps, red chilli and garlic.

Shrimp and saffron butter orecchiette

Authors

Adam Bush Chef Portrait
Adam BushDeputy food editor
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