Smoked Norfolk Saffron Threads

How to use

Take the required amount of saffron (see below), crumble or grind it and then infuse it in a liquid suitable for your recipe (water, stock or milk) for at least 20 mins, or overnight. This is important to get the maximum colour, flavour and aroma from the saffron. Add the saffron infusion into your recipe.

How much to use

Saffron quantities for cooking are measured in grams, pinches, or numbers of threads. Assuming you don't have laboratory scales in your kitchen, by far the best way to get accurate results is to count of the number of threads required.

A saffron flower contains three joined threads, but for our advice below, quantities refer to single separated threads. A 0.3g jar of Norfolk Saffron typically contains over 100 threads.

Here are Norfolk Saffron's suggestions for cooking with their saffron*:

• Risotto: Use 30 threads for 4 servings made using 300g (12oz) of Arborio rice.
• Pilau: Use 15 threads per 150g (6oz) Basmati rice.
• Paella: Use 50 threads in a recipe to serve 4.
• Savoury Breads: For a subtle smoky-saffron flavour only, use 15 threads per 450g (1lb) flour. For a strong smoky-saffron flavour and a rich golden colour, use 60 threads per 450g (1lb) flour.

* These guidelines have been developed with Norfolk Saffron. Larger quantities will be required if weaker alternative brands are used.