I want to make this

[LizStreithorst]

http://www.eatingwell.com/recipes/cuban_style_pork_rice.html

I will have to substitute canned artichoke hearts for fresh but that's no biggie.  I'm not willing to drive into the city for a pint of rum, so I will leave it out.  But saffron...I have a feeling that it's a necessary ingredient and it is absolutely not available here.  It's way expensive.  Nobody would buy it.  I like to cook from time to time, and this is the first time even I have wanted to make something that called for it.  I'll hunt for a substitute but I know dang well there will not be an acceptable one.

[LizStreithorst]

I will use this.  It won't be the same but it will have to do.

Saffron Substitutions

Unfortunately, there is no truly acceptable substitute for saffron. Its distinctive flavor is a must for classic dishes such as paella, bouillabaisse, and risotto. If your recipe calls for saffron, do yourself a favor and use the real thing to fully appreciate the intended result.

? However, if you absolutely must substitute, a combination of 1/8 teaspoon of turmeric plus 1/2 teaspoon of sweet Hungarian paprika may be substituted for 1/4 teaspoon of ground saffron.

[Barb]

Tumeric and Paprika will at least give you a nice color Liz.  Let us know how it works.
Barb

[LizStreithorst]

I'll do it next Friday, the 4th.  The color will be right but all the subtle undertones will be lost.  I expect it to be good but not blow me away.