Discover the Delicious and Versatile World of Saffron: 5 Must-Try Recipes

Saffron, known as the "golden spice," is not only prized for its vibrant colour and distinct flavour but also for its numerous health benefits. In this post, we'll explore five incredible saffron recipes that you can easily make at home. From savoury to sweet, these recipes will showcase the versatility of saffron in your kitchen. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, these dishes will add a touch of luxury to your meals. Enjoy the culinary journey with Violex saffron!

Please click on each recipe title to expand and view the full ingredients and instructions:

Recipe 1: Saffron Rice

Ingredients:

• 2 cups basmati rice

• 4 cups water

• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads

• 1 tablespoon warm milk

• 2 tablespoons ghee or butter

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.

2. Soak the saffron threads in warm milk for 10 minutes.

3. In a large pot, melt the ghee and sauté the onion until golden brown.

4. Add the rice and sauté for a few minutes.

5. Pour in the water, saffron milk, and salt. Bring to a boil.

6. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed (about 20 minutes).

7. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use high-quality basmati rice and fresh saffron for the best aroma and flavour.
  

Recipe 2: Saffron Milk (Kesar Doodh)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups milk

• 5-6 saffron threads

• 2 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)

• 1/4 teaspoon cardamom powder

• 5-6 almonds, sliced

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.

2. Once the milk is warm, add the saffron threads and stir.

3. Add sugar and cardamom powder. Stir well.

4. Bring the milk to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes.

5. Pour into cups, garnish with sliced almonds, and serve hot.

Tips for Best Results:

• Simmer the milk on low heat to avoid scorching.

Recipe 3: Saffron Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken breasts

• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads

• 1/4 cup warm water

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 onion, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon ground coriander

• 1 cup chicken broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak the saffron threads in warm water for 10 minutes.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.

3. Add the chicken breasts and brown on both sides.

4. Sprinkle cumin and coriander over the chicken.

5. Pour in the chicken broth and saffron water. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

7. Serve with rice or couscous.

Tips for Best Results:

• Marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavour.

Recipe 4: Saffron Tea

Ingredients:

• 2 cups water

• 5-6 saffron threads

• 1-2 teaspoons honey

• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Boil water in a small pot.

2. Add saffron threads and let them steep for 5-10 minutes.

3. Strain the saffron water into a cup.

4. Add honey and lemon juice. Stir well.

5. Serve hot.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use freshly boiled water and let the saffron steep properly.

Recipe 5: Saffron Castella Cake

Ingredients:

• 220g egg whites

• 98g egg yolks

• 80g milk

• 70g vegetable oil

• 80g cake flour

• 70g granulated sugar

• 1g salt (optional)

• 1 dash vanilla essence (optional)

• 1 pinch saffron

  
  
  
  
  
  

Instructions:

1. Soak saffron in warm milk for 10 minutes.

2. Separate egg whites and yolks. Sift flour into a bowl.

3. Heat oil to 60°C, then pour over the flour and stir until smooth.

4. Add saffron milk, egg yolks, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth.

5. Beat egg whites until foamy. Gradually add sugar, beating to soft peaks.

6. Fold a third of the meringue into the batter, then fold in the rest.

7. Pour the batter into a lined mould from a height to remove air bubbles. Tap gently.

8. Bake at 130°C for 50 minutes, lower to 110°C for 40 minutes, then return to 130°C for 10 minutes. Leave the oven door ajar for 10 minutes.

9. Remove cake, tap the pan to release air, unmould, and cool on a wire rack. Peel off parchment paper and serve.

   
   

Tips for Best Results:

• Let the cake cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape.
  

Conclusion

Incorporating saffron into your recipes not only adds a luxurious flavour and vibrant colour but also brings numerous health benefits. From the fragrant saffron rice to the soothing saffron tea, each dish showcases the versatility of this precious spice. At Violex, we pride ourselves on providing high-quality saffron that ensures the best results in your culinary creations. Try these recipes today and experience the magic of saffron in your kitchen. For more exciting recipes and the best saffron products, visit our blog and shop at Violex.