Antonio Sotos Saffron. Roughly 50,000 saffron crocus flowers must be hand picked to create one pound of saffron, the world's most expensive spice. Found in dishes across the globe, the spice is derived from the stigma of the flower, with each deep red thread removed by hand during the monda or esbrinar portion of the harvesting process. The stigmas are then toasted and dried to maintain the saffron's aroma and flavor. Such exhaustive work, and the limited quantity of true saffron available, is the reason saffron was once worth its weight in gold.
Guaranteed 100% saffron in accordance with the strict guidelines of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). As prices continue to rise due to a poor harvest, adulteration abounds as many attempt to keep prices low. We guarantee each tin or jar contains saffron and only saffron, despite the spice's growing scarcity.
Antonio Sotos, S.L., established in 1912, follows strict guidelines for quality with IFS (International Food Standard), BRC (British Retail Consortium) and ISO 9001:2000 certification for handling, packing and commercialization of saffron. The coloring strength, as certified, is IS0 Grade (category) I, the highest quality available (Our last shipment received a coloring strength score of 222 degrees; read the saffron analysis report). All Antonio Sotos saffron has not been irradiated. Please visit the company's website, www.saffroman.com, for more information.
The 1 oz. tin is an attractive display of the saffron crocus flower. Inside, the saffron is held in a resealable pouch to maintain flavor and freshness.
The smaller jars are corked and sealed.
Storage Keep in a dry, dark place away from direct sunlight.
How to Use Saffron Threads from Antonio Sotos, S.L. Crush the saffron in a mortar and add to water 10-15 minutes before the dish is cooked. 0.15 g is suitable for 4-6 servings.