Saffron powder, Iran

Saffron-the gold of the kitchen-is obtained from the stigmas of the saffron crocus, which are plucked and dried by hand. 150,000 blossoms yield 1 kg of threads. The highly volatile safranal, an essential oil, is responsible for its strong, aromatic fragrance. Picrocrocin creates the bitter-sweet, smoky, and earthy flavor. Crocin, a water-soluble substance, provides the coveted bright yellow color. Saffron powder is soluble in both hot and cold water. About 1/8 teaspoon of this corresponds to a very heaped teaspoon of saffron threads, or approximately 1 gram. It is used in cooking, for example, in risotto, paella, or bouillabaisse, and for seasoning seafood.