Part 5/9:

In medieval times, the thrilling reintroduction of saffron to Europe likely came with Moorish influence after their conquest in the early 8th century. This new botanical treasure significantly enriched European culinary practices, as evidenced by its frequent appearance in recipes from The Forme of Cury, where it appeared in 40% of all recipes.

Cultivation Across Europe

Saffron’s cultivation spread widely across England and France, with notable places such as Saffron Walden emerging as critical centers for its production. The town even underwent a marketing rebranding to cash in on its association with saffron. Accounts claimed the saffron from this area to be of superior quality, popular not only for culinary pursuits but also for dyeing fabrics.