Saffron for Advent
Advent, Advent, the Lord is sent… Soon the time is on us once again, Advent begins. Thoughtful moments with hot chocolate and biscuits, fun with the kids or friends at the Christmas bakery at home, or a stroll through the Christmas market with mulled wine and candied apples: the festive time is upon us.
The term ‘advent’ comes from Latin and means ‘arrival’ – specifically that of Jesus at Christmas time. So is the birth of Jesus remembered among Christians. Advent traditions can be traced back to the seventh century. At that time, it was considered as a fasting period, during which celebrations were not permitted. Luckily, that’s different today. Actually the complete opposite: With us, the Advent gradually leads into the Christmas festivities. The festively decorated Advent wreath and the nibbling of seasoned treats actually couldn’t be any further from fasting times or abstention.
Saffron delicacies are now particularly in demand: whether a warm saffron milk or a stimulating saffron tea, which get the mood and the circulation going on grey winter days. Recipes for drinks can be found here.
For saffron tea, add three ground saffron threads in a cup of black tea or fruit tea. Delicious, and also great at combating colds. Those who would like to feel more awake, should try our wonderful saffron coffee or special saffron espresso.
A hint for cold Advent days: Invite your friends for a cosy afternoon Advent coffee and serve fancy treats. You can find tips here. Decoration tip: Arrange a coffee bar – in the style of Hot Chocolate Bars in the U.S. Fill up pretty candy jars with sweets and toppings and present it in a Christmassy fashion. Rock candy, marshmallows, cinnamon sticks or colourful crumbles are great to put in hot drinks or to pour over the cream topping. Serve with delicious saffron biscuits like the saffron yeast bread with raisins or a parfait with saffron honey pears.
Use fresh fir branches, candles, red and white ribbons and all sorts of Christmas glitter. For those who don’t feel like the traditional Christmas decoration in green, red and gold, decorations in saffron tones are a nice alternative – saffron yellow is homely and creates a cosy atmosphere. To start off with, candles, baubles, blankets or cushions are a good idea. Light becomes very pleasant through saffron yellow bulbs. More ideas for living in saffron tones are here.
We wish you an enchanting Advent – enjoy with your loved ones!