Saffron varieties
There are different varieties of saffron that differ in their origin, characteristics and quality. Here are some of the most well-known types of saffron:
Persian Saffron (Iran): Persian saffron is considered to be one of the highest quality varieties. Iran is the largest saffron producer in the world and is known for its high quality saffron. It is characterized by its bright red colour, strong aroma and high concentration of coloring and aromatic substances.
Kashmiri Saffron (India): Kashmiri saffron is native to the Kashmir region of northern India. It is valued for its dark red color and intense aroma. Kashmiri saffron is also considered a high quality variety.
Spanish Saffron: Spain is a well-known saffron producer with a long tradition. Spanish saffron is characterized by its dark red color and intense aroma. The La Mancha region is particularly known for its high-quality saffron.
Greek Saffron: Greek saffron comes primarily from the Kozani region of Greece. It is of good quality with a bright red color and an intense aroma.
Moroccan Saffron: Moroccan saffron is sourced from the Taliouine region of Morocco. It has a bright red color and a spicy aroma.
These varieties are just a few examples, and there are other saffron producers in countries like Italy, Afghanistan and Turkey. Each strain has its own distinctive traits and flavor profiles, and the choice of strain often comes down to personal preference and intended use.
Saffron quality
Iranian saffron comes in different grades based on various factors such as the proportion of red pistils, purity, aroma and color intensity. Here are the most common grades of Iranian saffron:
Negin Grade A or Super Negin : It is the highest grade of Iranian saffron. It consists of the longest and purest red pistils of the saffron crocus. Super Negin o Negin Grade A is characterized by its bright red color, strong aroma and high concentration of valuable ingredients. This grade is more expensive, but is valued for its exceptional quality and intensity.
Negin: Negin saffron is a high quality grade that is also obtained from the long red pistils of the saffron crocus. Negin has a bright red color, a strong aroma and a high concentration of coloring and flavorings. While not quite the same length as Super Negin, Negin saffron is considered one of the best qualities alongside Super Negin.
Sargol: Sargol saffron is a grade that uses the pure red pistils of the saffron crocus without the yellow parts. Sargol has a bright red color, a strong aroma and a high concentration of valuable ingredients. This variety is widespread and known for its good quality and usability in the kitchen.
Pushal: Pushal saffron consists of the red pistils of the saffron crocus together with part of the yellow petals. Pushal is of a slightly lower quality than Sargol, but still retains good color strength and a mild aroma. The yellow petals add to the visual appeal.
We would like to point out that the designations and categories of saffron qualities are not always uniform and can vary from manufacturer to manufacturer. Therefore, it is always advisable to pay close attention to the specific description and quality of the product when purchasing saffron.
Saffron Negin Quality A can be found here: 360Spices Shop