Tea & Turmeric – Your Local Saffron Source
📍 1175 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
☎️ (949) 715-9600
Saffron, often called “liquid gold,” holds a special place in kitchens and wellness routines throughout Orange County and Laguna Beach. These vibrant red threads are more than just an exotic spice, they carry centuries of tradition and powerful benefits rooted in Ayurveda and modern science.
Whether you’re savoring a saffron latte by the Pacific or adding it to a favorite rice dish, saffron is now a signature ingredient in Southern California’s wellness and culinary scene. This guide explores saffron’s unique benefits, how to identify quality saffron, easy ways to use it daily, and where to find the real deal right here at Tea & Turmeric in Laguna Beach.
Why Saffron Is Worth the Investment
Many wonder if saffron justifies its price. The answer is yes, it goes far beyond flavor or color. Saffron has been shown to help lift mood, ease mild anxiety and PMS, and support better sleep. Its antioxidants reduce inflammation and brighten the skin, while its calming properties promote restful nights.
A little saffron can be a daily ritual for nurturing both body and mind, offering natural support without reliance on caffeine or synthetic boosters.
How to Spot Authentic Saffron
Because saffron is valuable, it is often imitated with lower-quality ingredients. Look for:
• Deep red threads with orange tips (not yellow)
• A powerful, earthy aroma with a subtle sweet and bitter note
• Mild bitterness when tasted
At Tea & Turmeric, we source saffron directly from trusted organic farms in Kashmir and Iran. Every thread is lab-tested for purity, so you get full wellness benefits with no compromise.
Where to Buy Saffron in Laguna Beach & Orange County
Looking for the best saffron? Tea & Turmeric is your destination. We offer:
• Organic saffron threads for cooking and steeping
• Organic Golden Turmeric Saffron Latte blend, for mood and radiant skin
• Organic Rose Saffron Latte blend, perfect for hormone balance and relaxation
• Saffron Rose Black Tea, for a bold and aromatic start to your day
• Saffron Soul Herbal Tea, a soothing caffeine-free evening brew
All products are ethically sourced, lab-tested, and available in-store or online at teaandturmeric.com.
Need directions? Find us on Google Maps
Saffron in the Laguna Beach Community
Saffron is making its way into local favorites from beachside cafés serving saffron lattes to renowned chefs using it for fresh takes on classic recipes. Local chefs in Laguna Beach now feature our saffron in popular dishes like seafood paella, highlighting seasonal flavors and fostering a strong sense of community spirit.
Simple Ways to Use Saffron Every Day
You do not need to be a chef to enjoy saffron. Try stirring a tiny pinch of threads or a scoop of one of our latte blends into your favorite:
• Morning coffee, tea, or smoothies
• Bedtime herbal teas with rose petals or chamomile for better sleep
• Yogurt bowls or baked goods for a wellness upgrade
Laguna Customer Highlight
Ana from Mission Viejo stopped by Tea & Turmeric curious about new ways to use saffron. After chatting with our team, she tried stirring a small pinch into her morning oatmeal, a tip she picked up in the shop. Now, Ana makes saffron oatmeal part of her weekend routine and loves sharing the bright flavor with her family.
Stories like Ana’s show how easy it is to discover fresh, everyday uses for saffron through simple, local inspiration.
Try This Saffron Rice Recipe
Ingredients:
• 1 cup basmati rice
• 1 ¾ cups water
• ½ teaspoon celtic salt
• 8–10 saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons warm milk
• 1 tablespoon ghee or olive oil
Instructions:
1 Rinse and soak the rice for 15 minutes, then drain.
2 Soak saffron threads in warm milk for 10 minutes.
3 Heat ghee or oil in a pot; sauté rice for 2 minutes.
4 Add water and salt, bring to a boil.
5 Cover and simmer on low heat for 10 minutes.
6 Drizzle saffron milk over rice, cover, and steam 5 minutes.
7 Fluff rice and serve with local vegetables, fresh seafood, or lentils.
Wellness Tips for SoCal Living
Saffron can help soothe and hydrate sun-touched skin, making it ideal for Laguna’s climate. Add it to your summer smoothies or DIY face masks to nourish and glow all year.
What Our Customers Say
“The saffron here is beautiful and authentic, and the turmeric latte is now part of my daily ritual!” — Samantha, Laguna Niguel ★★★★★
“Love the sisters at Tea & Turmeric and has the best vibe in OC. Highly recommend for real spices and great advice.” — Miguel, Newport Beach ★★★★★
Frequently Asked Questions About Saffron
Is saffron really worth it?
Yes. Saffron offers wellness benefits for mood, skin, sleep, and flavor you won’t find elsewhere.
Can I use saffron daily?
Of course, a few threads or a teaspoon of our latte blend daily is gentle and effective.
Where to get authentic saffron near me?
Visit Tea & Turmeric in Laguna Beach, store and online shop both offer organic, tested saffron.
Need tips or have questions?
We’re here to help. Drop in, call, or DM us @teanturmeric.
Discover More with The Tea on Wellness Podcast
Want to learn more? Listen to our podcast episode, “A Pinch of Saffron: How One Ancient Spice is Changing Lives in Orange County,” on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or at teaandturmeric.com.
Visit Us Today!
Come by our Laguna Beach shop or order online to make saffron part of your everyday wellness. Mention this blog or our podcast for a surprise free gift!
Tea & Turmeric – Locally Trusted Since 2021
1175 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 715-9600
