1. Saffron
When it comes to the most expensive spices in the world, saffron definitely cannot be skipped. The price of this spice is around 300 million VND/kg, depending on its quality and origin.
Especially in Vietnam, this “golden” spice has been successfully cultivated in Sa Pa. However, since saffron flowers need to be hand-picked and only bloom for one week a year, the price of saffron remains high.
Saffron, the most expensive spice in the world.
2. Natural vanilla
Referred to as “green gold” in the plant world, vanilla beans have been priced at around 600 USD/kg since 2018, equivalent to over 15.5 million VND/kg (according to Business Insider). The fruit will be dried or preserved until it ferments, producing vanillin. Vanillin is the substance that gives vanilla its flavor and aroma.
The processed fruit is crushed and mixed with alcohol to extract natural vanilla, removing other impurities. This natural vanilla is the second most expensive spice in the world.
Currently, 80% of the world’s vanilla comes from Madagascar, but production is often reduced due to storms. In Vietnam, Mr. Tran Minh Trung, a farmer in Bình Dương, has successfully cultivated this expensive spice.
Vanilla is referred to as “green gold” in the plant world.
3. Asafoetida resin
Although it has a very “terrible” smell, the resin of the asafoetida tree is a highly favored spice in India. The resin is usually purple-brown, dark brown, and sometimes white or opaque yellow.
Due to its strong odor and bitter taste, Asafoetida is also referred to as “devil’s dung” in some European countries. This distinctive aroma, described as a mixture of sulfur, onions, and rotten cabbage, can be very unpleasant for many people.
However, this “selective” spice is very expensive. Just for 1 g, it costs about 35,000 – 71,000 VND, equivalent to 35 – 71 million VND per kg.
Asafoetida resin is a highly favored spice in India.
4. Nutmeg husk
Referred to as the “diamond of the spice and seasoning world,” the thin pink skin of nutmeg can be priced at around 3.5-7 million VND/kg.
With each nutmeg seed, only one layer of this husk can be harvested. It has a citrus and pine aroma, with a distinctive mild sweetness, providing a unique sensory experience for both smell and taste.
Abroad, this spice is used to enhance both savory and sweet dishes, adding a distinctive aroma. Additionally, it can be added to tea and mulled wine to create a warm flavor.
Nutmeg husk is the “diamond” of the spice and seasoning world.