The saffron crocus flower stem consists of three main components:
Saffron Stigma: The vibrant red threads at the top of the stem are the saffron stigma. These threads, often called saffron threads, are the most valuable part of the plant and are prized for their rich color and flavor.
Saffron Style: Just below the stigma threads, you'll find the saffron style, a thin and pale section of the stem. While less potent than the stigma, the style also contributes to the saffron's flavor and aroma.
Saffron Pedicel: The lower part of the stem, known as the pedicel, is not typically used for saffron. It is usually discarded as it contains fewer of the sought-after saffron compounds.
At SETCO, we take immense pride in offering a diverse range of saffron varieties, all distinguished by their exceptional quality and purity. With a legacy of uncompromising dedication to saffron cultivation, we provide you with the finest saffron available on the market. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of saffron quality. Our saffron is carefully cultivated and processed to ensure purity and flavor that exceed your expectations. With SETCO, you get saffron that reflects the essence of this prized spice.
Super Negin Saffron
Super Negin Saffron is an extraordinary saffron variety, distinguished by its bold, entirely red threads and its exceptional quality. Super Negin Saffron, often considered the highest grade, is characterized by its deep red threads with a thick, long structure. These saffron threads have a strong aroma and a rich, intense flavor. Super Negin saffron is meticulously hand-harvested, and only the top portion of the stigma is used, making it one of the most sought-after varieties.
Negin Saffron
Negin Saffron, while still of high quality, may have slightly shorter and thinner threads compared to Super Negin. It is also hand-harvested and retains a strong flavor and a vivid red color, making it an excellent choice for various culinary applications. In comparison, the main distinction lies in the thread's size and thickness. Super Negin saffron generally has longer, thicker threads, which can result in a slightly more potent flavor and aroma. However, both varieties are highly regarded and prized for their quality, and the choice between them depends on personal preference and the specific requirements of a recipe or dish.
Sargol Saffron
Sargol Saffron is a classification of saffron known for its entirely red threads, with no white parts. During its processing, the "style," referred to as the saffron's "stem," and the stigma, a few millimeters above their joint boundary, are separated. This variety of saffron is widely recognized. Sargol saffron is categorized based on the thickness and size of the stigma threads.
Pushal Saffron
Pushal Saffron is another reputable type of saffron. During its processing, the stigma threads are completely attached to the style, and they are not separated from each other. Pushal saffron is valued for its attractive appearance and is commonly used for decorative purposes and special applications. It is frequently used to garnish dishes and culinary creations rather than for general cooking purposes.
Bunch Saffron
"Bunch saffron," also known as "Dasteh" or "Bunch-Style Saffron," refers to saffron threads that are still attached to the dried stigma styles, forming a cluster or bunch. Unlike the individual threads in other saffron grades, in Bunch saffron, multiple threads remain connected to a central part of the plant's reproductive organ. This style of saffron is less processed and often chosen for its aesthetic appeal, especially when saffron is used as a garnish or decoration in culinary dishes. It is appreciated for its distinctive presentation, and the threads are usually longer than those in other saffron categories.