Saffron is a spice that is extensively used in a variety of things, like medicines, cosmetics, food and in cultural rituals. There are definitely other spices also that are used as extensively as saffron, but why is it that saffron has the title of “red gold”? There is a clear reason for it, the luxury that saffron offers is unparalleled, with its rich golden hue its sweet fragrance and its particular taste that adds that special touch to anything it is added to. And how can one talk about saffron without mentioning Kashmir, as Kashmiri Saffron is the crown jewel of the saffron world.
Not all saffron is the same and there is one that stands at the top for its superior qualities, the Kashmiri saffron. Kashmir Saffron, or more locally called as Kashmiri Kesar is a product of something very aesthetic in itself, the beautiful Kashmir valley. Thanks to Kashmir’s geography, saffron cultivation here flourishes well and it is something that has been done for centuries. Saffron is derived from the dried stigmas of the Crocus sativus, which is better known as the “saffron crocus”. The processing of saffron needs to be done carefully, so as to keep the colour, aroma and flavour intact. The craftsmanship that is needed for this careful processing is very well done for Kashmiri saffron, so it adds to the already superior quality of the flower.
So what is it that makes Kashmiri kesar so special? Well, there are very agreeable reasons for this. The major thing is the quality of the stigmas of the flower. Kashmiri saffron has the longest, thickest, and darkest stigmas among all saffron varieties, which makes it more potent and purer than the rest. Kashmiri saffron also boasts of very intense aroma and flavour which can impart a deep yellow- orange colour to the food making it more appealing.
Kashmiri saffron also has medicinal properties over other uses in the kitchen. They are such a health booster with anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antidepressant, antispasmodic and aphrodisiac properties. That was quite a list, right? Kashmiri saffron has even more utilities as it can help with sleep problems, menstrual cramps, breathing problems, cough, skin problems and even infertility. Kesar is also a good memory-booster and can improve your mood, digestion and blood circulation.
If you are wondering about Kashmiri kesar price 1 Kg being high, you are right. Kashmiri saffron is pretty expensive, but rightfully so as it delivers the quality for the price. At the same time, you only need to use Kashmiri saffron sparingly as it is very potent. If you’re hesitant about the kesar price 1 kg, just remember the old saying: quality over quantity. Just a pinch is enough for most dishes as it could overpower other ingredients. Make sure to get your Kashmiri saffron from a reputable source as there could be false advertisements and also remember to store it properly. Kashmiri saffron is delicate and sensitive and can lose its flavour if exposed to too much light, heat and moisture.
Kashmiri saffron is not just a spice, it is an asset to your kitchen and cosmetics and has a story to tell as it’s from one of the most enchanting places on Earth. The effort that goes into making the finest Kashmiri Saffron really shows in its quality. If you want to experience the magic of Kashmiri saffron, do check out Local Sparrow’s freshly harvested, chemical free Kashmir Kesar. They collect saffron from the infamous saffron district of Pampore in Kashmir, so there is no doubt about its quality and you will get to experience the luxury of real Kashmiri saffron. So, the next time you indulge in the world’s most premium spice, straight from Kashmir,don’t forget to savour the goodness and flavour of it!
