Spanish Saffron, 1 Gram Jar

Saffron is the world's most expensive spice. Saffron are the stigmas from the crocus sativus flower. There are only 3 stigmas (referred to as saffron threads) per flower. Saffron is hand harvested so you can understand why it is so prized and so expensive. It takes about 13,125 threads to weigh one ounce.

The most common dishes that use saffron include:

Spanish Paella
French Bouillabaisse
Italian Risotto Milanese
English Saffron Cakes
Indian Biryani

Unless you use saffron frequently it is best to purchase in small amounts, typically .5 or 1 gram at a time. The most important rule is "don't use too much". A very little bit of saffron goes a long way and if overused becomes overpowering and leaves a "medicinal" flavor.

If you use saffron frequently then you may want to invest in a one ounce tin. Properly stored you can keep saffron for minimally three years. It won't "go bad" but the flavor will diminish as it ages.