crocus spice crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "crocus spice crossword" by Letter Count
7 Letters
SAFFRON: A highly prized spice derived from the stigma and styles of the Crocus sativus flower.
More About "crocus spice crossword"
The clue "crocus spice" is a direct reference to one of the world's most valuable and sought-after spices: saffron. Derived from the flower of the Crocus sativus plant, often called the saffron crocus, this vibrant spice is famous for its distinct aroma, unique flavor, and rich golden hue it imparts to dishes.
Saffron's journey from flower to spice is incredibly labor-intensive, which contributes to its high cost. Each tiny stigma and style (the threads) must be carefully hand-picked from the flower. It takes thousands of individual flowers to yield just a single ounce of saffron, making it a true culinary luxury. Major saffron-producing regions include Iran, Spain, India (Kashmir), and Greece.
Beyond its culinary applications in dishes like paella, risotto, and various desserts, saffron has a long history of use in traditional medicine and as a natural dye. Its deep connection to the crocus plant makes "SAFFRON" the quintessential answer for any crossword clue linking a spice to this beautiful flower.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Deconstruct the Clue: Break down clues like "crocus spice" into their core components. "Crocus" points to a specific plant family, and "spice" narrows it down to an edible product from that plant.
- Consider Synonyms and Associations: Think about direct associations. What's the most famous spice that comes from a crocus? This direct link often leads to the correct answer quickly.
- Check Letter Count (if provided): If your crossword specifies a letter count (e.g., "crocus spice (7)"), this is a huge hint. It helps eliminate possibilities and confirm your answer.
- Think Broadly and Narrow Down: Initially, consider all possibilities, then use context from the clue and any intersecting letters to narrow down to the most fitting word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is saffron primarily used for?
Saffron is primarily used as a culinary spice, known for its distinct earthy aroma, slightly sweet taste, and vibrant yellow-orange color. It's common in dishes like paella, risotto, bouillabaisse, and various desserts and beverages.
Why is saffron considered the most expensive spice in the world?
Saffron's high cost is due to its labor-intensive harvesting process. Each saffron thread must be meticulously hand-picked from the Crocus sativus flower. Thousands of flowers are required to produce a small amount of the spice, making it incredibly rare and valuable.
What does 'crocus spice' refer to in a crossword clue?
In a crossword clue, 'crocus spice' almost exclusively refers to SAFFRON. Saffron is derived from the Crocus sativus flower, making the connection direct and common knowledge for crossword enthusiasts.