But, what is saffron? It’s a well known spice obtained from the stigmas of the flower of Crocus Sativus Linnaeus, commonly known as “rose of saffron”. The cultivation of saffron needs an extreme climate: high and dry temperatures in summer and cold in winter. Also, the ground should be dry, calcareous, aired flat and treeless. All these qualities meet in Castilla La Mancha (Spain) and have made it one of the most important production areas in the world. The Spanish saffron is distinguished by the concentration of its components (safranal, picrocina and crocina): less amount gives a greater effect. The cultivation of saffron is a reflection of its high price in the market (it has always been the most expensive spice): 85000 flowers are needed to get 1 kg of saffron.
Cultivation of saffron. Source: www.abc.es
The Spanish saffron in good conditions presents a very colorful and intense red. Its aroma is not too intense, but soft, like a good perfume. As regards to the organoleptic characteristics, the Spanish saffron has a much higher power and aromatic dye, fruit of the traditional process of peeling and natural roast: the stigma of saffron does not mix with other parts of the flower, as it happens with saffron from other countries.
Source: www.azafransolidario.org/
Saffron is one of the most valuable spices, especially in cooking. But it has also provided multiple services throughout history. The Huns, for example, used the spice to calm stomach, gums and menstrual pains; Egyptians pharaohs used to embalm with it; and Cleopatra bathed herself in saffron flowers to pamper her skin. Greeks used saffron to perfume their rooms with it; while Romans liked to lie on cushions stuffed with saffron.
In conclusion, saffron is a unique product which has been used from centuries ago not just in the food, but to improve and beautify the health and the body. The difficulty in its cultivation makes it a luxury spice which you can import from Spain –the first country in exportation and second in production– through edando, the only B2B platform between India and Spain.
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