Best Southeastern European Spice Types
Krokos kozanis is a spice taken from the bulb stigmas of the saffron plant, part of the Iridaceae family. It is produced within the various municipal areas of Kozani, in the region of West Macedonia in the northern part of Greece.
The exclusive rights for the collection, distribution and packing of Greek Saffron is held by the Cooperative de Safran. Annual production depends upon weather conditions and ranges from 6 to 12 tons of pure red saffron per year. It takes 150,000 flowers to produce 1 kilogram of dried crocus stigmas and about 50,000 stigmas to obtain 100 grams of red saffron which makes saffron the most expensive spice in the world.
THE BEST Krokos Kozanis Saffrons
Mahleb or mahlepi is a unique spice made from the seed kernels of the Prunus mahaleb (mahaleb cherry) tree, native to the Middle East and Southeastern Mediterranean.
The soft and chewy seed kernels are ground to a powder and used as a spice in various regional kinds of bread, cookies and cakes, meat stews, and pilafs. The taste can be described as sweet and slightly bitter, with a hint of almond and cherry. It is also believed that mahleb has medicinal properties, helping with digestive issues, respiratory problems, and inflammations.
Best Southeastern European Spice Producers
The Kozani Saffron Producers Cooperative, established in 1971, is headquartered in the village of Krokos, Kozani Prefecture, Greece. The cooperative comprises approximately 1,000 members and holds the exclusive rights to collect, process, package, and distribute saffron cultivated in the region.
The cooperative's primary objectives include coordinating saffron cultivation to enhance both yield and quality, as well as standardizing the product's appearance. To achieve these goals, the cooperative engages in scientific research on saffron cultivation and implements innovative programs to train its staff and farmers.
BEST Krokos Kozanis Herbs and Spices
Best Southeastern European Spices
AWARDS
Great Taste Awards - 3 stars
2024
Red saffron filaments, packaged in a 28g glass jar, are a premium-quality product from the Kozani Saffron Producers Cooperative. This saffron is renowned for its superior aroma, vibrant color, and rich flavor, making it a prized ingredient in culinary applications.
The glass jar ensures the freshness and quality of the product are preserved for an extended period. For more details or to purchase, visit the official product page.
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