What Country Does Saffron Come From?

Video Transcript

"What country is saffron from? Well saffron is actually native to Asia, but now, eighty percent of it comes from Iran and Spain and also it comes from Greece and Morocco as well. Used since ancient times, it has remained highly prized for its unique taste and aroma and the wonderful flavor it imparts to foods. Now saffron is derived by picking the filaments, or stigmas of a particular crocus plant, called crocus sativas. And can you believe it takes seventy-five-thousand flowers to produce one pound of saffron? That's why it is so expensive, but there's nothing like the unique flavor to saffron used in many dishes. It is planted, picked and sorted by hand, hence earning the title as the world's most exotic spice. Saffron is a natural spice that's flavor can not be duplicated. It is the traditional flavor of many European dishes such as French boule base, Spanish paella, and Milanese risotto and it is used extensively in Middle Eastern cookery. And just a pinch will flavor and color one pound of rice. I'm Jan from Kitchen Kitchen."