Spices in the kitchen not only provide a unique taste, aroma and appearance of dishes, but also… numerous properties supporting the health and well-being of the body. For this purpose, it is worth taking an interest in the golden spice, which is characteristic of the cuisine of the Caucasus, especially Georgia. If you have ever visited this country, you have certainly heard about Imeretian saffron. I got it from a friend from Georgia and now I use it almost every day. Why is it worth having Imeretian saffron in your kitchen?
Although the name may be a bit misleading, Imeretian saffron is not the real saffron, which is obtained from crocuses. The Georgian one actually is dried and ground marigold petals – Tagetes. It also has a yellow-orange color and a herbal and slightly fruity aftertaste with a hint of bitterness.
This spice certainly gives dishes a unique color and flavor, but that’s not all. The inconspicuous one Pollen from marigold petals has many valuable health properties.
Thanks to the content of carotenoids and flavonoids, marigold flowers show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effectsthanks to which Imeretian saffron helps fight inflammation in the body and oxidative stress, which translates into general condition of the entire body.
Additionally, Imereti saffron is valuable support for better digestion and the functioning of the entire digestive system. It relieves nausea and cramps. This too beneficial effect on liver function and . Interestingly, this inconspicuous spice from the Caucasus can also be helpful in relieving headaches or sleeping problems.
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As you know, classic saffron is famous, among other things, for its high price. So, they found something for him in the Caucasus a substitute, which is Imereti saffron. Valued for its taste, color and properties, it is eagerly used in the kitchen as addition to many dishes.
It will work great as complementing vegetable, fish and meat dishes. Its herbal flavor with a light fruity note is quite neutral, which makes it work well in compositions with other spices.
To benefit from its beneficial effects, it is worth using Imeretian saffron every day add to soups, stews, stewed dishes, vegetables or rice. It also works well as a food coloring, just like turmeric. In Georgia, it is often used for preparation sacivi, i.e. peanut sauce served with chicken or turkey. It can also be one of the ingredients of various marinades. It will enrich the dish not only in taste, but also in color.
