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Kashmir produces some of the most expensive and high-quality spices in the world. Learn how to buy authentic Pampore Saffron (Kesar) and premium Kashmiri dry fruits without getting scammed.
Kashmiri saffron is renowned globally for its deep crimson-red color, intense aroma, and high crocin content. It takes approximately 150,000 purple crocus flowers (hand-picked in the fields of Pampore) to produce just 1 kilogram of pure saffron.
Always ask for Mongra grade saffron. Mongra consists only of the dark red stigmas (the most potent part). Lacha grade includes the yellow tail (style) of the flower, which adds weight but has no culinary value.
Place a few threads in warm water. Pure saffron will slowly release a golden-yellow hue over 15 minutes. If the water turns deep red immediately, the saffron is dyed with artificial color.
Chew a single thread. Authentic saffron smells sweet but tastes slightly bitter. If it tastes sweet, it has been coated in honey or sugar to increase its weight artificially.
Never buy saffron from street vendors or pony guides in tourist spots.
Always buy directly from certified growers in Pampore (located on the Jammu-Srinagar highway) or Govt. approved stores.