Goal: Make a Dish With Saffron In It!

By Jennie

So, I made a super ambitious list of to-do items (sidebar!) for the year, and the VERY FIRST ITEM says "make a dish with saffron in it."

{Photo from ifood.tv}

I have this weird fascination with saffron. It's just a cool-sounding word, isn't it? It's also a beautiful color and brightens up dishes, and before you say, "but shit is is it expensive!" let me say, "I know!" (Also my husband surprised me with some, so I already own it. KEEPER.)

BUT WHAT TO DO WITH IT?

Do you have any dishes you love with saffron in it? I have some Rachael Ray recipes (I'm her biggest fan) that include it, so I know I can find something.

Help a saffron-newbie out!

Comments

[Rebecca (Bearca)]

Oh, me me me! I have one that is easy and delicious. Also, it is rather non-fancy, so be aware in case you were looking for something more highbrow.

Anyway, it's from Mark Bittman (The Minimalist), whose cookbooks I LOVE and ADORE:

http://www.nytimes.com/1998/03/04/dining/the-minimalist-simply-chicken-and-rice.html

Only tip from me to you is to be sure to really season the chicken well. A little extra salt and pepper really makes a difference.

Good luck!

[Jessica]

I made some ice cream with saffron in it, I loved it, Wills was not so sold.

http://www.davidlebovitz.com/2008/09/quick-coconut-ice-cream-with-saf/

[Jen]

Saffron screams PAELLA to me. Try this one from your gal Rachael Ray:

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/rachael-ray/perfect-paella-recipe/index.html

[Molly]

My aunt makes the most delicous saffron buns with raisins. Heaven warm with butter.

[Heather]

I second the saffron ice cream suggestion, but with mango! My Indian friend has given it to me before, and it is DIVINE. HUGE chunks of mango, with the saffron flavoring...sigh.

[sarah]

Giada has a great recipe with saffron in it. It's grilled meats and vegetables. Google it and I'm sure it will come up. I make it occassionally and it's delicious!