We all have the spices we keep close at hand when cooking. While it’s easy and cheap using the basics (salt, pepper, etc), there’s a whole world of rare exotic spices to elevate your cooking to the level.
Here are some of the rarest spices to tempt you into leaving your cooking comfort zone.
Saffron
Saffron has a complex, intense flavor, bringing both sweetness and bitterness to your dish. It is most often used in seafood, rice, sauces, and paella. There are many different types of saffron, and Slofoodgroup best explains each one and when to use each kind.
Saffron spice originated from Greece but gets its name from the Arabic word for yellow, zaffron. It is harvested by removing the stigma from the saffron crocus. The yellow or purple flowers are delicate and the process is time-sensitive, which is why it can cost $5 to $10 per ounce. Luckily, a little saffron goes a long way.
Sumac
This Middle Eastern spice is a coarse red powder that brings a tangy, almost citrus flavor. It does very well on fish, chicken, and hummus. Too much heat can cook out Sumac’s flavor, so it is best used near the end.
Sumac earns its place as one of the rarest spices because some sumac is poisonous. This calls for critical discernment when it comes to harvesting the right kind.
Grains of Paradise
If you find yourself adding more and more pepper to your food, it’s time to give grains of paradise a try. Before you grind them up, grains of paradise look like peppercorns, but they deliver much more heat to your dish.
Originating from West Africa, grains of paradise may not be one of the most expensive spices, but they can be difficult to find. Your best chance is at an African grocer, specialty spice store, or by searching online.
Fennel Pollen
This savory Tuscan spice is stronger and sweeter than regular fennel. It boasts a citrus-meets-licorice flavor that will bring a light, summery sweetness to any dish. It only takes a little fennel pollen to elevate your dish and does best with pork, chicken, sausage, light soups, pasta, and bread
It’s much more expensive than fennel, weighing in at a worth of about $12 an ounce. It earns its place among expensive spices because of the intense labor required to harvest the pollen.
Cardamom
Cardamom brings a unique aroma and flavor to dishes. Most comparable to a fruity pine blend, it does best in sweet dishes and has a place in some curries. Cardamom is most closely related to ginger and turmeric and is the main component in chai drinks.
This South Indian spice also has many health benefits and is one of the more expensive cooking spices because it must be handpicked.
Rarest Spices to Spice Things Up
Now that you know a handful of the rarest spices, which one will you try out first? Whether you’re learning how to not burn spaghetti or a cooking connoisseur, check out our food section for all things culinary.
