Saffron infused Orange Smoothie

We still need the Vit C boost inspite of warm spring weather, since pollen and hay fever on the rise.
Chia, flax, coconut manna were getting too stereotyped for my smoothies.  In search of a new ingredient for my Sunday smoothie, saffron crossed my mind due to its pleasing orange color.
Thanks to Spanish Saffron and El Cardamomo bought by Ram for me from Las Ramblas last week,I couldn't wait to use these amazing spices, and this time not in an Indian dessert but in a simple smoothie.
Saffron and cardamom morphed the oranges into a rich, exotic and aromatic smoothie.

Little do we know that saffron is a powerful stress reliever, antidepressant,

anticonvulsant and also an antioxidant. Cardamom can combat bloating and acidity and known to improve oral health.

3/4 cup green apple chops
3/4 cup pineapple chunks
2 navel oranges peeled
1/4 cup warm almond milk
4-5 cardamom pods
1 tsp saffron strands and few for garnish
1/2 cup cold water

Heat about 4-5 tbsp almond milk in microwave for 12 seconds. Once warm, add the saffron strands in the almond milk and keep for 5-10 mins covered.
Open the cardamom pods and transfer the seeds onto a mortar and gently crush them using the pestle until they coarsely powder. Do not throw away the pods as they could be used for Chai or tea.

Transfer the fruits in a blender with water and add the remaining almond milk. Also add the crushed cardamom and saffron

strands  in almond milk. Blend them into a smoothie.  Add cold water if it's too thick. Serve chilled, garnished with few strands.