Saffron is the most precious and most expensive spice in the world. The Saffron is the dried stigmas of the saffron flower, "Crocus Sativus Linneaus". It is dark orange and threadlike in appearance. Each flower contains 3 stigmas and it takes around 80000 flowers to make a pound of saffron. Saffron is available both in filaments and powder, though the long, deep red filaments are usually preferable to the powder as the latter can be easily adulterated. Saffron aroma is strong and fresh, never musty. Saffron spice can be added to a wide range of foods including soups, sauces, vegetables, meats, fish, rice dishes, and even confections. In addition to its culinary uses, saffron has also been attributed with various kinds of healing effects. Saffron is prescribed as an herbal remedy to stimulate the digestive system, ease colic and stomach discomfort, and minimize gas.
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