It was the year 2005… I will never forget the moment I first inhaled the exquisite scent of saffron in my grandmother’s kitchen in Iran. A few strands of saffron in a small bowl, with a piece of ice on top… Watching the water turn golden yellow as it sat quietly was mesmerising. Today, I want to share this special knowledge with you. Because brewing real saffron correctly is the key to fully benefiting from its miraculous effects.
✨ What is saffron and why is it so special?
Saffron is a highly valuable spice obtained from the female organs of the Crocus sativus flower, with a price tag that rivals gold. What makes it so special is not just its price, but its natural components that improve mood, support immunity, and even protect skin health.
But remember: brewing saffron incorrectly can cause you to lose most of these benefits.
🧊 First Step: Opening Saffron (How to Prepare Saffron)
Unfortunately, simply adding saffron to water and drinking it is not enough. First, it needs to be ‘opened.’ Just like a flower blooming with patience...
🔸 Ingredients:
4–5 strands of real saffron (approximately 0.05 grams)
1 ice cube
A small glass or porcelain container
🔸 How to Do It?
Place the saffron threads in the container.
Add the ice cube and let it melt at room temperature.
As the ice melts and the saffron threads begin to release their colour into the water, that legendary golden yellow hue will emerge.
This process can take about 30–60 minutes, but trust me, it's worth the wait. This is because the slow dissolution allows the volatile oils and beneficial components of the saffron to fully dissolve into the water.
☕ Step 2: How to Brew Saffron (Classic Method with Hot Water)
Another traditional method is to brew it directly with hot water... This method is quite practical, especially if you are short on time. But again, there are some important points to keep in mind.
🔸 Ingredients:
4–5 strands of real saffron
A cup of hot water (approximately 80–90°C)
A glass or porcelain cup or teapot
Optional: a mortar and pestle or grinder
🔸 How to Make It?
Lightly crush the saffron threads in a small mortar to turn them into a powder. This process helps the saffron dissolve more quickly and release its aroma more easily.
Place the crushed (or whole) saffron in a cup or teapot.
Pour 80–90°C hot water over it. (It is sufficient to let the water cool for 1–2 minutes after boiling.)
Cover and let steep for 10–15 minutes.
After a short while, the water will begin to turn golden yellow and the wonderful aroma of saffron will fill the air.🎯 Tip: If you have time, soak the crushed saffron in a little warm water for 10 minutes before adding hot water for a more intense colour and aroma.
🍯 Optional Additions
To enhance the flavour and benefits, you can add the following:
1 teaspoon of organic honey
1 slice of lemon
A piece of cinnamon stick
Or a bag of green tea
💡 Tips for Brewing Saffron
Make sure you are using real saffron. Fake saffron is bright orange and stains.
Do not use metal containers. Choose glass, porcelain, or ceramic containers.
You can store opened saffron water in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Do not consume more than 1 cup per day; less is better, more is harmful.
🧡 Result: A Cup as Valuable as Gold
Saffron is not just a spice. With its thousands of years of history, healing properties, and ritualistic brewing process, it is a life experience... If you try this method at home, you will definitely want to brew it again. Because every sip is like drinking the peace that comes from nature.
