What can I use instead of Saffron?

Turmeric (for color only): 1/4 tsp turmeric + a pinch of paprika. Safflower threads: 1:1 by volume.

What changes when you substitute Saffron?

Color without flavor. Much weaker flavor.

Substitute for Saffron

What it does in a recipe: The world's most expensive spice: floral honeyed color and aroma.

2 substitutes, ranked by what's already in your pantry. Amounts are dataset values — US and metric where a ratio exists.

Turmeric (for color only)

per 1/4 tsp saffron

US1/4 tsp turmeric + a pinch of paprika

Metric1 g turmeric + paprika

Pantry stapleBaking-safe ✓Alcohol-freeDairy-freeEgg-freeFish-freeGluten-freeNut-freePeanut-freeShellfish-freeSoy-freeVegan

Gives the golden color; NOT the saffron flavor.

What changes: Color without flavor

Safflower threads

per 1/4 tsp saffron

US1:1 by volume

Metricsame volume

SpecialtyBaking-safe ✓Alcohol-freeDairy-freeEgg-freeFish-freeGluten-freeNut-freePeanut-freeShellfish-freeSoy-freeVegan

Often sold as 'safflower saffron' — mild and floral.

What changes: Much weaker flavor

Related swaps

Common questions

What can I use instead of Saffron?: Turmeric (for color only): 1/4 tsp turmeric + a pinch of paprika. Safflower threads: 1:1 by volume.
What is the exact ratio to substitute Saffron?: Turmeric (for color only) (per 1/4 tsp saffron) — US: 1/4 tsp turmeric + a pinch of paprika. Metric: 1 g turmeric + paprika.
What changes when you substitute Saffron?: Color without flavor. Much weaker flavor.

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