Saffron: A Global History

Description

Explore the dramatic history of the world's most expensive spice in Saffron: A Global History Literally worth their weight in gold, sunset-red saffron threads are prized internationally. Saffron can be found in cave art in Mesopotamia, in the frescoes of ancient Santorini, in the dyed wrappings of Egyptian mummies, in the saffron-hued robes of Buddhist monks, and in unmistakable dishes around the world. It has been the catalyst for trade wars, as well as smuggling schemes, and used in medicine and cosmetics. Complete with delicious recipes and surprising anecdotes, this book traces the many paths taken by saffron, revealing the allure of a spice sought globally by merchants, chefs, artists, scientists, clerics, traders, warriors and black market smugglers.

Journalist and chef Ramin Ganeshram is the author of a number of cookbooks and The General's Cook: A Novel (2018).

"This book is much like the ingredient it focuses on: exquisite. A brilliant and informative book by an uber talented author."--Monica Bhide, author of Modern Spice: Inspired Indian Flavors for the Contemporary Kitchen