Most people have at least heard of the saffron spice, but few home cooks are using it regularly. Due to both presentation and price, saffron can certainly be a bit intimidating. After all, it is the most expensive spice in the world! But the most common question of all is simply, "What can I make using saffron?"
Here are a few of our favorite recipes using saffron:
1. Risotto alla Milanese
This luxurious rice dish is the signature dish of Milan, Italy. It's a simple, creamy risotto made with saffron and Parmigiano-Reggiano.
Suggested recipe: Creamy Risotto alla Milanese by Serious Eats
2. Bouillabaisse
A mouthwatering fish stew that originated in Marseille, Southern France. Bouillabaisse uses whatever fish is fresh and available that day along with saffron, fennel bulb, and fish stock.
Suggested recipe: Bouillabaisse by NYT Cooking
3. Loobia Polo
This Persian green bean stew combines saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric for a flavor that surprises and delights. It's basically an Iranian comfort food equivalent to mac-and-cheese.
Suggested recipe: Loobia Polo by Spice Alley
4. Paella
Paella is a Spanish dish, rooted in the fishing region around Valencia. It was the food of farm workers who cooked rice dishes over fires with whatever ingredients were readily available.
Suggested recipe: Seafood Paella by Simply Recipes
5. Saffron Rice Pudding
A simple dessert that can be made using last night's leftover rice. Simmer the rice gently in milk with a few threads of saffron to create a golden pudding. Top with ruby pomegranate seeds.
Suggested recipe: Saffron Rice Pudding by Food & Wine
6. Chicken Biryani
This classic Indian dish consists of succulent, juicy pieces of chicken cooked in a yogurt marinade and then layered with crispy onions, coriander, mint and Basmati rice.
Suggested recipe: Chicken Biryani by My Food Story (blog)
