Saffron (Kesar): It is a spice derived from the stigmas of a flower called saffron crocus. The stigmas need to be handpicked, and it takes 75,000-225,000 stigmas to make about a pound of saffron. It is definitely not a cheap spice to buy, but a little bit of saffron goes a long way. The flavor of saffron is hard to distinguish, but it is a bit sweet, floral, and pungent. It yields a beautiful flavor and color to many dishes around the world.