ORGANIC Saffron (Crocus sativus) - whole stigmas

We bring you a piece of sunny Albanian coastline in the form of certified ORGANIC saffron.

Saffron (Crocus sativus) is one of the most valuable spices in the world, obtained by drying the stigmas of crocus flowers. This plant is originally from the Eastern Mediterranean, but saffron is now cultivated in various parts of the world, including Spain, Iran, India, and Albania. The saffron harvesting process is physically and time-intensive, entirely done by hand to ensure that the stigmas remain intact. To produce just one kilogram of saffron, approximately 150,000 crocus flowers are required, which explains why saffron is so expensive.

Saffron is primarily used in cooking due to its intense flavor and aroma, which impart a unique character to dishes. It is also used for coloring food and sweets and has applications in traditional medicine because of its health benefits. It's used in various culinary recipes, such as paella, risotto, or for a unique flavor in certain desserts. You can also create a refreshing saffron tea or saffron-infused cream cheese.

Enjoy this exotic delicacy from Albania and add an unforgettable taste to your culinary repertoire.

Consuming saffron can offer a range of health benefits due to its content of bioactive compounds:

• Antioxidants - Saffron contains potent antioxidants such as crocin and safranal, which help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties - Some of the compounds found in saffron have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.

• Mood Improvement - In natural medicine, it's traditionally used to support mental well-being, reduce symptoms of depression, and anxiety.

• Digestive Support - Saffron is used to support the digestive system and alleviate digestive issues.

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Albanian saffron is exceptional not only for its rich aroma and unique flavor but also for its origin on Cape Rodon, near the city of Durres.

In addition to its picturesque landscape, which may remind some of the southern coast of England, this place also offers a refreshing opportunity to swim in the Adriatic Sea, whose waters are the cleanest in all of northern and central Albania in this area, thanks to its rocky shores.

At the very cape, there are the remains of an ancient fortress built in the 15th century by the Albanian national hero Skanderbeg. From the same period, there is a beautifully reconstructed monastery church of St. Anthony, adorned with frescoes depicting a horseman and a double-headed eagle, likely representing the oldest depiction of Albania's current national emblem. In front of the church, there is a mineral spring that annually attracts a traditional pilgrimage celebration on June 13th.