Introduction
If you are a cooking enthusiast, you know the true value of fresh spices and herbs. Authentic spices not only add aroma to your cuisines but also depth and dimension to your otherwise mild dishes. For centuries, in every culture across the globe, spices have held a place of reverence. This is because of their potential to transform a simple meal into a culinary masterpiece.
Ever wondered what some of the world’s most expensive spices are? We are here to satiate your curiosity. Here’s a list of the world's most expensive spices that you must know about.
5 Most Expensive Spices in the World
1. Saffron
Saffron, nicknamed as ‘red gold’, has been the most expensive spice on earth for eons now. It has a complex and earthy flavour and a vibrant hue, making it a useful ingredient for biryanis and desserts. Did you know that 1 kg of saffron can cost you around INR 3,00,000?
Wondering, ‘Why is saffron so expensive?’ It is because it requires labour intensive harvesting like no other spice. Saffron originated from Greece but is now primarily cultivated in Iran, which happens to be the world’s biggest producer of saffron, nearly producing 80- 90% of the world’s saffron.
2. Vanilla
Vanilla is the second most expensive spice in the world. It is grown primarily in Madagascar, Mexico, Indonesia, etc. It is derived from seed pods of the vanilla plant. They are harvested by hand and require a labour intensive fermentation process before they are sold in the market.
Vanilla is used in milkshakes, decadent cakes, sauces, etc. Its exquisite aroma makes it a common ingredient that is used in not only gourmet desserts but also perfumes.
3. Cardamom
Often referred to as the ‘Queen of Spices’, cardamom adds an intense and slightly sweet flavour to your sweet and savoury dishes. It is primarily cultivated in India, Sri Lanka and Guatemala. It is a versatile spice and hence it holds a revered position in the Indian kitchen.
Cardamom is used in curries, biryanis and Indian sweets. The labour-intensive harvesting process, limited growing locations and high demand are some of the factors behind the exorbitant price of this spice.
4. Cinnamon
Cinnamon is said to be one of the oldest spices known to humankind. Today, it is used for a plethora of culinary preparations, from biryanis and pulavs to hot chocolate, coffees, buns, pies and tarts.
Its sweet and distinct flavour makes it an essential spice to have in every pantry. Cinnamon is derived from the Cinnamomum verum plant. This plant is native to Sri Lanka, although today it is widely cultivated in many other tropical countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, China, etc.
5. Pepper
Pepper is another essential spice that is always on the list of the world’s most expensive spices. Originally found in India, today it is commonly cultivated in Brazil and many other countries in Southeast Asia, like Vietnam and Indonesia. Black pepper is often called the ‘King of Spices. This is because at one point it was only used by the royals due to its high price.
Black pepper has a sharp and pungent flavour. Once a luxurious spice, today it is used in every Indian household for both sweet and savoury preparations. Its subtle heat and complex flavour make it a great spice to add to your soups, salads, sauces, curries, etc.
History of Expensive Spices
The use of spices dates back thousands of years. Our ancestors used spices for religious sermons, burial rituals, medicinal purposes and cooking. They were of high value even in the olden times because of their relative geographical scarcity.
In fact, the world’s insatiable desire for spices sparked trade routes and redrew the world map. For over thousands of years, Arabs were the middlemen for spice trades across the globe. In 1498, Vasco da Gama came to India by sea from Europe in the discovery of cheap spices and the rest is history.
The Final Verdict
To conclude, saffron is the world’s most expensive spice, followed by vanilla. This is then followed by other spices like cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, etc. Remember that these spices are more than just mere ingredients. They represent the diverse, rich and distinct history of man’s pursuit of flavours in the culinary world. These expensive spices might cause a dent in your pocket but they are sure to take your taste buds on a joy ride of exciting flavours and tastes like never before.
Sunrise Spices has an impressive range of whole spices and masalas that every Indian kitchen must have. These premium-quality spices are an essential arsenal that you need if you wish to woo your loved ones with your home cooking.
elevate your culinary experiences like never before with Sunrise Pure masalas and whole spices.
Frequently Asked Questions About Expensive Spices in the World
1. Which is the costliest spice in the world?
Saffron is the costliest spice in the world. This is because it requires a lot of work growing and needs to be handpicked. Besides this, the Crocus sativus flowering plant has only 3 stigmas per flower and it takes about 200-500 of such stigmas to produce a gram of saffron.
2. What are some ways to make expensive spices last longer?
One of the best ways to make sure that you make the most of expensive spices is to buy them in small quantities so that they don’t get spoiled. Once you buy some of the most expensive seasonings and spices , make sure that you store them in airtight jars away from direct sunlight. Another tip is to buy whole spices and grind them as and when required. This is because whole spices last longer and retain their aroma and flavour for a long period of time.
3. How can I make sure that I am buying high-quality spices?
If you are investing in high-quality spices, here are a few tips to shop the right way:
● Buy from a trustworthy brand like Sunrise Pure that is known for its premium-quality whole spices and spiced blends.
● Make sure that you buy spices that have a potent and distinct fragrance.
● Avoid buying spices that have a dull appearance. You must always look for vibrant spices, as they are often the fresh ones.