Saffron is more than just a spice; it’s a culinary treasure that has been prized for centuries. Among the various saffron varieties, Kashmiri Mongra Saffron stands out for its unmatched quality. Known for its rich aroma, deep flavour, and vibrant colour, this saffron is a luxurious addition to any dish. At Zama, we bring you the finest Kashmiri Mongra Saffron, sourced directly from the Pampore region of Kashmir. Ready to discover its magic? Let’s dive into five unique recipes you can create with this luxurious spice.
What Makes Kashmiri Mongra Saffron Special?
Rich Aroma and Deep Flavour
Kashmiri Mongra Saffron delivers a distinct aroma and taste that can elevate even the simplest dishes into gourmet creations.
Vibrant Colour
Its vibrant red threads add a stunning golden hue to any dish, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious. Only the red stigmas are taken from the saffron flower, ensuring the highest quality and intensity of colour.
Labour-Intensive Harvesting
Harvesting saffron requires painstaking manual effort, making it one of the most expensive and sought-after spices globally.
Sourced from Pampore, the Saffron Capital
The Pampore region offers ideal conditions for growing saffron, ensuring that each thread is of premium quality.
Cooking with Kashmiri Mongra Saffron
To get the best out of your saffron:
- Grind saffron into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Sprinkle the powder over an ice cube in a glass and let it melt completely.
- Add the saffron syrup to your dishes and drinks for rich flavour and colour.
4 Unique Saffron Recipes
1. Bastani Sonati
Bastani Sonati (traditional ice cream) is a beloved and iconic dessert in Iran. This treat blends the luxurious flavours of saffron, rose water, and crunchy pistachios. With its delicate floral notes and satisfying crunch,it is the perfect dessert for any occasion.
Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 3-4 hours | Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 3 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 tbsp saffron threads
- 1 cup raw brown sugar
- 4 egg yolks
- 1/2 tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp edible rose water
- 2 tbsp chopped pistachios
Steps to Make:
1) Heat the Milk & Add Saffron: In a medium pan slowly heat the milk to a boil. Once it begins to boil, add the vanilla extract and saffron. Lower the heat and continue to cook.
2) Prepare Egg and Sugar Mixture: In a bowl, beat the egg yolks and sugar together until smooth and foamy.
3) Combine Egg and Milk Mixtures: Pour the egg and sugar mixture into the simmering milk, stirring constantly with a whisk. (Be sure to do this slowly to avoid scrambling the eggs) Continue to heat on low heat, until the mixture thickens and coats the spoon (about 5-7 minutes).
4) Cool the Custard: Pour the custard mixture into a bowl and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 4 hours or overnight.
5) Add Cream, Rose Water & Pistachios: Once the custard is chilled, stir in the heavy cream, rose water, and chopped pistachios.
6) Churn the Ice Cream: Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and churn until it reaches a soft-serve consistency. (If you don't have an ice cream maker, freeze the mixture, stirring vigorously every 30 minutes until it becomes smooth and frozen.)
7) Freeze and Serve: Transfer the ice cream to an airtight container and freeze for another 3-4 hours or until firm.
Tips:
- For a richer flavour, you can substitute pistachios with other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts.
- Adjust rose water for a stronger floral flavour.
2. Safran Serbeti
Şerbeti is a sweet, cooling Turkish drink flavoured with saffron, ginger, and lemon. This vibrant, golden elixir is both sweet and aromatic, offering a delightful balance of floral and citrus notes. Perfect for a hot summer day or a special occasion, this traditional Turkish beverage is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 4 hours (chilling)
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp raw brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp saffron threads
- 4 1/4 cups water
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced (plus extra for serving)
- 1/3 cup Acacia honey
Steps to Make:
1) Crush Sugar and Saffron: Using a mortar and pestle, crush the sugar and saffron threads into a fine powder. Set aside.
2) Boil Water with Ginger and Lemon: In a medium pan, bring water, ginger slices, and lemon slices to a boil over high heat. Let it boil for 2 minutes.
3) Add Saffron and Steep: Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the saffron-sugar mixture. Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes, allowing the saffron to infuse its colour and flavour.
4) Add Honey: Stir in honey and mix until it dissolves completely.
5) Chill: Cover the pan and refrigerate for at least 4 hours to chill and allow the flavours to meld.
6) Serve: Once chilled, serve the saffron drink in glasses with extra lemon slices for garnish.
Tips:
- You can adjust the amount of honey depending on your desired sweetness.
- For a spicier kick, feel free to add a pinch of ground ginger in addition to fresh ginger.
3. Creamy Saffron Butter Pasta
Indulge in the rich and aromatic flavours of this Creamy Saffron Butter Pasta. With a silky sauce made from saffron, butter, and heavy cream, it's the perfect balance of savoury and creamy. Topped with Parmesan and fresh basil, this dish is a must-try for any occasion.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients:
- ¾ tsp saffron threads (crushed)
- ¼ cup hot water
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 garlic cloves (chopped)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- ½ tsp red chili flakes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 10 oz flat pasta
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Pink salt, and black pepper to taste
Steps to Make:
1) Prepare the saffron infusion: Place crushed saffron threads in a small bowl. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Pour water over the saffron. Set aside to steep.
2) Prepare the pasta cooking water: In the large pot of boiling water, generously season with pink salt and keep it boiling.
3) Make the saffron butter sauce: In a large pan, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1 finely chopped onion and 3 finely chopped garlic cloves. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened.
4) Add saffron: Add the reserved saffron and soaking liquid, crushed red pepper flakes, and the remaining pink salt. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring often.
5) Simmer the cream: Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir to combine all the ingredients. Once the sauce is thickened, remove the pan from the heat.
6) Cook the pasta: Cook flat pasta noodles in the boiling salted water until softened.
7) Combine pasta and sauce: Return the pan with the saffron butter sauce to medium-high heat. Add the cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, finely grated Parmesan, and the remaining unsalted butter. Toss to combine, cooking until the sauce thickens and coats the pasta, about 2 minutes.
8) Serve: Divide the creamy saffron pasta among shallow bowls. Top with additional Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Tips:
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with whole milk.
- Experiment with other cheeses for a different twist.
4. Saffron Milk Cake Recipe
Saffron Milk Cake is a rich and aromatic dessert, perfect for any special occasion. Infused with the delicate flavour of saffron and topped with creamy condensed milk and whipped cream, it’s a melt-in-your-mouth treat that will leave everyone wanting more.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp saffron threads
- 3 tbsp butter (melted)
- ½ cup coconut sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup whipped cream
- ¼ cup condensed milk
Steps to Make:
1) Prepare saffron infusion: Soak the saffron threads in 2 tbsp warm milk. Set aside for 10 minutes to infuse and release the colour and flavour.
2) Prepare the dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and coconut sugar.
3) Mix wet ingredients: In another bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and saffron-infused milk. Stir well.
4) Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Mix until you achieve a smooth batter. Add more milk if necessary to adjust the consistency.
5) Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and spread evenly. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6) Prepare the topping: Mix the whipped cream and condensed milk in a small bowl. Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
7) Assemble: After the cake has cooled slightly, pour the whipped cream and condensed milk mixture over the cake to soak it. Let it absorb for a few minutes.
8) Serve: Slice the cake and serve chilled, garnished with additional saffron strands or whipped cream if desired.
Tips:
- For added depth, you can add a pinch of cardamom powder to the batter.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts (such as pistachios or almonds) on top for extra crunch and flavour.
Health Benefits of Saffron
1) Mood Booster: Saffron is known to help alleviate stress and improve mental clarity.
2) Immunity Enhancer: Its antioxidants help strengthen your immune system.
3) Aids Digestion: Saffron supports better digestion and gut health.
Why Choose Zama for Kashmiri Mongra Saffron?
At Zama, we ensure:
- Ethically sourced saffron directly from Pampore farmers.
- Unparalleled quality and authenticity.
- Freshness delivered to your doorstep.
Conclusion
Kashmiri Mongra Saffron is more than a spice; it’s an experience. Whether you’re crafting a creamy dessert or a hearty main course, this luxurious ingredient brings unmatched depth and flavour. With Zama, you’re not just buying saffron—you’re embracing a tradition of quality and care. Try these recipes and transform your culinary journey today!
FAQs
Q. How should I store Kashmiri Mongra Saffron?
A. Store it in an airtight container away from sunlight to maintain its freshness.
Q. Can saffron be used in savoury dishes?
A. Absolutely! Saffron enhances savoury recipes like biryanis, risottos, and soups.
Q. What’s the difference between Mongra saffron and other varieties?
A. Mongra saffron is handpicked and offers superior aroma, flavour, and colour compared to other types.
Q. How much saffron should I use in a dish?
A. A pinch (4-5 threads) is usually enough for most recipes.
