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 Research in China is ongoing. In Europe saffron threads were a key component of an aromatic oil known as "crocinum", which comprised such motley ingredients as alkanet, dragon's blood (for colour), and wine (again for colour). "Crocinum" was applied as a perfume to hair. Another preparation involved mixing saffron with wine to produce a viscous yellow spray; it was copiously applied in sudoriferously sunny Roman amphitheatres—as an air freshener. Books Journal articles Miscellaneous Trade and use of saffron Saffron is a key seasoning, fragrance, dye, and medicine in use for over three millennia. One of the world's most expensive spices