How to distinguish high quality Iranian Saffron from low grade Saffron?
Where to buy Saffron in Iran?
Persian Saffron is taken from the flower of “saffron crocus”. The vivid red stigmas and styles, called threads, are collected and dried to be used in food mostly as a seasoning and colouring agent. It has a sweet flavor. It is the most expensive spice in the world, because it should just be picked by hand, not machines. 250,000 stigmas make only half a kilo of Saffron, that’s why it is so expensive and precious. Iran now accounts for 90% -93% of the world Saffron production.
Genuine Persian Saffron threads are all in vivid crimson color with a slightly lighter orange-red color on the tips. This indicates that it’s not colored artificially. But, on the other hand, dull brick red color of Saffron is indicative of age, suggesting you not to buy that.
Aroma is strong and fresh in high quality Persian Saffron and there should not be broken-off debris collected at the bottom of container. Also if you see yellow or white plant parts mixed with the red threads, that is probably a sign of low grade Saffron. High quality Saffron threads are also dry and brittle to the touch, but in low grade one, you may see moister trapped inside for adding dead weight.
The main source of Saffron is Mashhad, which is located in north-east of Iran. you can find most of Persian Saffron selling shops around 17 Shahrivar Square in Mashhad. But in other cities like Shiraz, Isfahan, Yazd and Tehran you can easily buy Saffron as well.
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