Kiva Gourmet Spanish Saffron - Premium Grade (1 gram)

We received a gram of Spanish Saffron for $11.95 -- no shipping 'cause we have Prime, and patience. Beside, we needed the extra day to decide what was going into the bouillabaisse that would be the vehicle for this fragrant spice.KIVA is an excellent seller. The vial was sealed. Their packaging was enough to hold 8.5" x 11" paper unfolded; perhaps to send a single vial (standard spice bottle size) they'd want to use less bubble-wrap.We *almost* subtracted a star because I had to use half a gram (half the package) to achieve the vibrant yellow color and intense aroma in about 4-5 servings of bouillabaisse -- instead of the pinch of saffron called for in Craig Claiborne's New York Times cookbook (Julia Child, in Mastering the Art of French Cooking) doesn't mention Saffron.Perhaps I must seek-out costlier Saffron to get that effect. The Saffron I've used in other people's kitchens seemed somehow more fragrant; but I must study -- I think if I'd let it blossom in some clarified butter or stock, it would've become more intense. I think I also hesitated to cook it much; I added it last, with the shellfish. We spotted a lot of colorful strands which obviously had more color (and maybe aroma) to contribute had we given them time.All in all, I'll buy from Kiva Gourmet again!Photos below; the package (atop our seafood); adding the saffron; and the gram in paper (wide shot and closeup).

I was surprised the the amount of stamens in the packet. The saffron worked very well in a broth which I added to Calasperra rice and I still have stamens left over for at least 1 or 2 more dishes. The saffron imparted a golden color and pleasant flavor to the rice. I think for testing one's skills at paella (this was my first dish) it doen't cost too much, especially over another 1 or 2 dishes. Saffron is such an ancient spice. I wanted to make a special dish for my husband with it, and he declared it was a success.

I am originally from Belgium and use saffron to make our famous rice pudding.We usually get saffron from India and I was surprised to learn they grow saffron in Spain also.I haven't used it yet but upon inspection as soon as I received the package I knew I won't have to worry. The moment I opened the bottle the aroma hit me. The strands look nice in the separate bag and I know my next 'rijstpap' will be perfect with this saffron.

I understand that this is an expensive spice and it is hard to come by but the picture in the add looks like a full bottle; when you get it, its a bottle and then there is a little bag inside the bottle with a tiny bit of spice inside. if i would known that i wouldnt get it. first and last time i buy from this vendor.

Looks like good stuff.

Yum, this is my first purchase of saffron as it has intimidated me by the price. I love this taste. I'm adding it to many things. My teenagers favorite is to the average scrambled eggs I have made! It has really been a yummy change to my boring cooking routine. I'll be reordering this product when I run out

While I was pleased with the product, I was a bit disappointed about the amount. I thought it would contain a bit more than it did. The picture is a little deceiving. Oh well!

I guess saffron is the most expensive ingredient by the pound and luckily it goes a very long way. My Grandma would never think of making chicken soup especially but any other soup as well, without it. Family saying without saffron, it's not soup. This brand lives up to my expectations.