Simplest way to saffron

June 28, 2022 9:26 AM

I’ve got some Spanish saffron from Trader Joe’s and I understand there are many delicious recipes I could make with it, but I am interested in taking it just for health benefits, in the simplest way possible. Could I just… eat a strand? If not, what’s the best way to consume it without cooking an elaborate dish?
posted by Forty-eight to Food & Drink (6 answers total)

Let it bloom for a minute or two in warm milk or water. You can also add it to other drinks like chai, golden milk, teas, etc. You can also drop a few strands into rice while you're cooking it. It doesn't have to be complicated, just don't put it in things that don't taste good with saffron.
posted by ananci at 9:37 AM on June 28, 2022 [7 favorites]

A therapeutic quantity of saffron is approximately 1/4 to 1/2 of your whole Trader Joe's jar of saffron.
posted by phunniemee at 9:47 AM on June 28, 2022 [18 favorites]

The easiest thing would probably be to go back to Trader Joe's, get a box of their frozen microwaveable rice, and eat it with that.
posted by kevinbelt at 10:38 AM on June 28, 2022

Saffron is so lovely and amazing and expensive that I don't know why you wouldn't take advantage of all it's amazing qualities. At least make it into tea.
posted by oneirodynia at 11:58 AM on June 28, 2022 [3 favorites]

Saffron and rice?
posted by kschang at 12:02 PM on June 28, 2022 [1 favorite]

Could I just… eat a strand?

I think 'stigma' is the term for the singular; and sure, why not?

the best way to consume it without cooking an elaborate dish?

I add some to the batter when I make cornbread.
posted by Rash at 4:16 PM on June 28, 2022