saffron
Dried stigmas of a crocus that turn food golden yellow and give it a bittersweet, floral aroma.
Saffron threads are sold in small amounts in supermarkets, but better quality at fairer prices is found in Persian or Turkish shops or online. Choose threads over powder, which is more often adulterated.
Substitute:
There is no real substitute, because the aroma is unique. Turmeric or safflower give only the colour, not the flavour; it is better to use a little less saffron than to replace it.
Used in
Adas PoloPersian lentil rice with saffron, raisins and browned ground beef90 minAlbaloo PoloSour cherry rice with saffron, little meatballs, almonds and pistachios105 minAsh-e reshtehThick herb soup with noodles, beans and lentils, finished with kashk and mint oil3 hBastani SonnatiPersian saffron ice cream with rose water and pistachios40 min hands-on · 12,3 h waitingChaiPersian black tea with cardamom, clear and amber in the glass15 minCheloFluffy steamed basmati with saffron and a crisp golden crust from the pot90 minGhormeh SabziSlow-braised lamb with fried herbs, kidney beans and dried limes3 hJoojeh KababChicken skewers in saffron, yogurt and lemon, grilled over the coals45 min hands-on · 4,2 h waitingKabab KoobidehMinced meat with onion and saffron, kneaded and grilled flat on skewers over coals2 hKhoresh-e BademjanBraised eggplant and beef in a gently sour tomato sauce60 min hands-on · 105 min waitingKhoresh-e GheymehSlow-braised lamb with yellow split peas, dried lime and crisp fried potatoes45 min hands-on · 75 min waitingKhoresh-e fesenjanChicken slow-braised in a thick sauce of walnuts and pomegranate2,5 hKuku SibzaminiPersian potato cakes with egg and turmeric, crisp outside and soft within60 minSholeh zardSaffron rice pudding with rose water, almonds and a dusting of cinnamon2,5 hTahdigSaffron rice with a crisp, golden crust from the bottom of the pot30 min hands-on · 70 min waitingZereshk PoloSaffron rice with glossy barberries, pistachios and braised chicken2,5 h