Saffron

Definition

The golden-red stigmas (thread-like structures) of the Crocus sativus flower, used as a prized spice and food coloring in cuisines worldwide, particularly in Persian, Indian, and Mediterranean cooking. It's the world's most expensive spice by weight due to the labor-intensive harvesting process.

Example Usage

She added just a pinch of saffron to the paella, giving it its distinctive golden hue and earthy flavor.

Origin

From Arabic 'za'faran,' possibly related to Sanskrit 'asphikam.'

Fun Fact

It takes about 150 flowers to produce just one gram of dried saffron, and each stigma must be hand-harvested.

Source: Definition backfill (hailey)

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