Substitutes for Saffron Threads:
When you’re out of saffron or looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider these substitutes for saffron threads:
Turmeric:
In cooking, turmeric is a number-one saffron substitute. It gives the same yellow shade and also a gentle dirt taste, thus being an ideal substitute in recipes where color prevails over saffron’s unique flavor.
Safflower:
While safflower is known as “false saffron,” it has the same bright color without affecting the taste; hence, it can be used in place of true saffron provided that there’s a need for brilliant tint alone.
Paprika:
Paprika gives a colour that really resembles saffron. Although it doesn’t mimic the sit that saffron has, this is a very good alternative in dishes where this spicer is not dominant.
Related articles : Saffron Dosage and Usage Guide
Annatto:
Annatto seeds or powder can imitate the saffron’s color and give a mild nutty taste. It can be used as a very good saffron replacement in the dishes such as rice, soups or stews.
Saffron Extract:
If you want to find a saffron substitute for baking or desserts, the saffron extract can be used. It provides the refined flavor of saffron and also gives you a perfect opportunity to add some ‘saffron-ness’ into your sweets.
Cheaper Substitute for Saffron?
In fact, there are several cheaper alternatives to saffron that can give the same good results in terms of color and even taste. Though these others do not provide necessarily the same taste of saffron, they offer an affordable option to those looking for a replacement in cooking or baking also.
Saffron Substitutes in Cooking:
The focus in cooking using saffron substitutes is usually to get the bright color it gives to foods. Your recipe choice may include turmeric, safflower, paprika or annatto can be used which makes its own peculiarities.
Saffron Substitute in Baking:
For baking purposes, saffron extract is an excellent choice as a saffron replacement. Its concentrated flavor ensures you can incorporate saffron’s essence into your baked goods without breaking the bank on saffron threads.
Saffron Substitute for Biryani:
If you’re preparing biryani and have to make do with the turmeric instead of saffron, use a pinch as the substitute. It may not taste exactly like saffron, but it will impart a gorgeous golden color on your dish similar to the look of this spice.
Related articles : Saffron Medicinal Uses and Warnings
