Greek Saffron...

Most of us think of greek cuisine basically as souvlaki, tzatziki and moussaka. Don't get me wrong I think a souvlaki is one of the greatest, and cheapest fast food fixes you can get., but defining greek cuisine is a lot more complicated than that. Greek cuisine is a culmination of regional cuisines, amazing local products and  many talented, and wonderful  chefs and amateur cooks keeping our culinary traditions alive. Every chance I get I will introduce to you some of these exquisite products as well as to some unique recipes from different regions of Greece.

Today I want to mention the Greek producers of Saffron or Krokos Kozanis in Greek. Did you know the Saffron produced in Greece  is considered one of the best in the world?

Saffron or "krokos"  is produced in Kozani in northern Greece. The only place in Greece, and one of the few places in Europe where saffron is cultivated. The town was named Krokos, from the Saffron producing flower, the crocus sativus. The climate conditions , the cultivation method used, as well as centuries of experience explain the fine quality and characteristics of Krokos Kozani.

With respect to quality, seriously this saffron is one of the best, and still reasonably priced campared to other saffron from other parts of the world.

Saffron was also used in ancient Greece, Egypt and Rome for its medicinal benefits. It is said to protect your eyesight, as well as having super anti-oxidant properties.

Saffron Tea Recipe:

 
3 cups of water

12 strings of Saffron or Krokos Kozanis
plus the tea of your choice
let simmer for about 5minutes..sieve and serve plain or with honey.

..interesting note: Did you know...In Greek mythology, the mortal Crocos fell in love with the nymph Smilax. Smilax rejected his amorous advances and turned him into a beautiful purple crocus flower....!!