Saffron (use) the liquid phase; powdered saffron does not require this step. The soaking solution is then added to the hot cooking dish, allowing even colour and flavour distribution, which is critical in preparing baked goods or thick sauces. Threads are a popular condiment for rice in Spain and Iran, India and Pakistan, and other countries. Two examples of such saffron rice is the "zarzuela" fish-seafood stew and "paella valenciana", a piquant rice-meat preparation. It is essential in making the French "bouillabaisse", which is a spicy fish stew from Marseilles, and the Italian "risotto alla milanese". The saffron bun has Swedish and
Trade and use of saffron Greece. From ancient to modern times the history of saffron is full of applications in food, drink, and traditional herbal medicine: from Africa and Asia to Europe and the Americas the brilliant red threads were—and are—prized in baking, curries, and liquor. It coloured textiles and other items and often helped confer the social standing of political elites and religious adepts. Ancient peoples believed saffron could be used to treat stomach upsets, bubonic plague, and small pox. "Saffron, for example, was once less regarded than it is today because the crocus from which it is extracted was not particularly mysterious. It