Saffron is considered to be the most expensive spice. It takes 200,000 flowers, harvested by hand, to produce only one pound of Saffron! However, only a small quantity is needed for most recipes. Saffron is popular in Mediterranean rice dishes but it goes well with a wide variety of cuisines.

Saffron has a characteristic aroma and a peculiar, exotic, bitter taste. Often called "The Golden Spice," it has a deep reddish brown color and can make any dish smell, taste and look royal.

It grows in Kashmir, India, Turkey, and other Mediterranean countries ?the largest quantity now comes from Spain.

Saffron strands need to be soaked in a little warm water or milk to infuse. It is best when sealed tightly and stored in the refrigerator, or in a cool cabinet, away from direct light.

Medicinally, it is used as a sedative, as an antispasmodic and for flatulence. Some cultures consider it an aphrodisiac.

This HEA Saffron from Spain comes in a plastic box containing 1 gm (0.04 oz.).