By  A. Shih, R. Zadeh, B. Shih & S. Zadeh

RANCHO MIRAGE, California -- A spice that is worth its weight in gold - at times, even outpacing gold in price - saffron is an exotic and extremely valuable spice, world-renowned for its attributes. The Persian community would certainly agree, as Iranian saffron plays a central role in its culture, history and cuisine. Its deep reddish golden hue and high cost value have rightfully earned saffron the title of Red Gold.

Historians and food connoisseurs have long recognized saffron as the most expensive spice in the world. In fact, on a price per kilogram basis, it is at the very least comparable to gold. The spice permeates everything from food flavoring and coloring, to garment dyes, to medicinal applications, even to cultural symbolism. For example, “its blossoms in the spring are a symbol of beauty and youth”.

"He who controls the spice controls the universe." - Frank Herbert

Although the exact early history of saffron may not be known, with several countries claiming ownership of its origination, many sources trace the spice's first cultivation to Iran. In current times, Iran remains the world's largest producer and exporter of saffron, accounting for nearly 90% of its supply. Other producers include Spain, France, Italy and India.

The saffron spice is derived from the saffron flower, or Crocus sativus. Harvesting the flowers, and then extracting their valuable gold-colored stigmas, is a painstaking process. Several of the delicate manufacturing steps disallow machine assistance, rather requiring human hand involvement. The stigmas are then carefully dried and fermented to yield the coveted spice.

"Sweet or savory, high quality Iranian Saffron adds a little bit of magic to every dish."

We only use genuine, 100% pure saffron, imported from Iran. Sweet or savory, high quality Iranian Saffron adds a little bit of magic to every dish. Experience the authentic flavor of saffron in our pastries! Aashpazi Irani!

[Editor's Note: We recommend caution when purchasing saffron. Always buy from a reputable seller, whenever possible. Due to its expensive price, impure or adulterated samples are unfortunately quite common on the marketplace.]

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