World's most expensive spice, often called 'red gold', only grows in..., 1 kg of costs up to Rs 3 lakh, it is...

India.com

15-05-2025

We use all kinds of spices in our kitchens every day. Each dish needs its own mix of spices, and every spice has its own flavor and importance. These spices not only differ in taste but also in price. In fact, Indian spices are famous across the world for their rich aroma and flavor. But have you ever wondered which is the most expensive spice in the world? Here we will read about a spice so costly, its price might just surprise you.
This spice is often called 'Red Gold' because of how rare and valuable it is. You've probably heard of it, it's saffron. Right now, saffron is considered the most expensive spice in the world. One kilogram of saffron can cost anywhere between Rs. 2.5 lakh to Rs. 3 lakh. What is Saffron?
Saffron is a rare and valuable spice that comes from the flower of a plant called the autumn crocus (scientific name: Crocus sativus). This beautiful flower blooms only in the fall. At the heart of each flower are three tiny red threads, these are called stigmas, and they are what we know as saffron. These delicate strands are carefully handpicked, dried, and used as a spice.
Apart from the red stigmas, the yellow stamens and the purple petals of the flower are also useful. They're often used to make natural fabric dyes. But why is saffron so expensive?
There are many reasons. For one, it takes around 150,000 flowers to produce just one kilogram of saffron. Even more surprising, each flower only gives three saffron strands, that's it! Each flower produces only a few tiny red threads, and these have to be picked by hand, one by one. Another reason is the plant itself. Saffron plants are also among the most expensive plants in the world. In India, saffron is mainly grown in some parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
On top of that, saffron can only grow in very specific weather conditions, making it rare. Its rich flavor, deep golden color, and health benefits also add to its high value.
No one knows exactly where saffron was first cultivated, but it's believed that over 2,300 years ago, the soldiers of Alexander the Great brought the idea of growing saffron to Greece.
Saffron isn't just used in cooking. It's also valued for its health benefits. It's often used in skincare products, especially in creams meant to brighten and nourish the skin. People use saffron in various ways i.e. in food, health supplements, and even beauty treatments. What does Saffron tastes like?
Saffron has a floral, earthy flavor that becomes slightly sweet, and has some honey notes . The presence of crocin, a carotenoid compound also in gardenias, lends saffron its signature tinge of bitterness.