Which Is the Most Expensive Spice?

Saffron, derived from the stigmas of the Crocus sativus flower, has been the world most expensive spice for centuries. Each flower produces only three stigmas, which must be hand-picked during a brief autumn harvest window. It takes about 150,000-200,000 flowers to produce one kilogram of dried saffron, requiring approximately 40 hours of manual labour. This makes retail prices range from $5,000 to $10,000+ per kg, though only small amounts are needed per dish (a few threads flavour an entire paella). Iran produces about 90% of the world saffron, followed by India (Kashmir), Spain, and Greece. Saffron imparts a distinctive golden colour, honey-like flavour, and earthy aroma.