How To Prepare And Use Saffron
There are different methods for preparing saffron. It is recommended to cooks to grind saffron threads to a fine powder. This way even a small pinch will release enough color and aroma to make an everyday dis look very indulgent. So, if you like to use saffron more often invest in a small stone, ceramic, or metal mortar and pestle with a rather rough surface on the inside. It’s best never to use the mortar and pestle for grinding other spices or to wash it
Preparing Saffron With Water
Use Saffron With Icing Method
Add Saffron Threads Directly To Your Food Dishes
The Method For Preparing Saffron
In humid weather, it may be a little difficult to grind saffron threads. A pinch of coarse sugar is often added to saffron threads to make grinding easier. It acts as an abrasive, to reduce the saffron into a fine powder once the threads have begun to break down. Though you can use salt in its place, sugar is the more traditional abrasive since it has less of an impact on the final seasoning of a dish. Damp threads can also be dried in a microwave oven for 20-30 seconds on a piece of kitchen paper before grinding. Keeping your stash of saffron in a tightly covered small jar in a cool, dark place helps keep it dry.
Grind Saffron
Put 1/4 teaspoon of saffron powder in a tiny jar. Add one tablespoon freshly boiled water that you have allowed to cool for a few seconds. The liquid instantly becomes densely aromatic with a deep sunset hue. Cover the jar with the lid and put it in a warm place. I often let my saffron brew on the lid of a simmering pot or kettle and use the liquid (and the grinds) after ten or fifteen minutes. This method produces a deeper color
Saffron With Ice
Put 1/4 teaspoon saffron in a small bowl or cup. Add an ice cube (crushed ice is best). Leave to infuse for about ten minutes or until the ice has completely melted. The gradual melting of the ice will bring out the color and aroma of saffron very nicely. Use the liquid as required.
This liquid is ready to add to a dish at any stage, but it is recommended to add most of the saffron-infused liquid early on and keep a few drops for a finishing touch.
Cooking With Saffron Threads
Add Saffron Directly to Dishes
Consideration
Most recipes use a very small amount of saffron, so measure carefully. Avoid using wooden utensils when cooking with saffron. Your wooden spoon will absorb the flavor and color, leaving you with wasted saffron and a ruined spoon.