SAFFRON, or zaafrane beldi, is derived from the dried stigmas of crocus sativus L and the difficulty of gathering it makes it the most expensive spice in the world. We are proud to have the very finest quality harvested by hand in the High Atlas mountains near the village of Talouine. More intensely fragrant than the ubiquitous Spanish saffron, and much less costly since we acquire it directly from the source, this pure Moroccan saffron is offered to our clients with an absolute guarantee of satisfaction. We recommend steeping the saffron in 2 tablespoons of hot water for 15 minutes prior to adding the water/saffron 'tea' to recipe. This will enhance its flavor and make it more economical to use. It is truly a remarkable product. Recipes included. 3 grams (.10 oz.)

EC152 $20     

RAS EL HANOUT is the heady combination of many spices which have been milled together for use in mrouzia and other tagines. Among the seasonings are qâqulla (cardomom), gouzi ettib (nutmeg), nouiouara (a variety of pepper), querkoub (turmeric), skinjbir and skinjbir bied (dark and white ginger), dar felfell (a long pepper), bsibsa (mace), lissan ettir (fruit from the ash-tree), ibzar (black pepper), blended with other components rounding off the deep taste of this intoxicating powder. Recipes included. 15 grams (.52 oz.)

EC154 $7.50     

HARISSA, the powerful red pepper ground into a seasoning frequently added to the rich broth from a couscous dish, or directly into grilled lamb and beef kefta or chicken with cumin. The sharp, very hot (harra) note in Moroccan cooking often comes from this spice. Recipes included. 15 grams (.52 oz.)

EC153 $5.50     

FELFLA HLOUA is the sweet and mild pepper blended into such mixtures as partridge m'hammer where it is combined with butter and cumin, or veal tagine with green beans. 15 grams (.52 oz.)

EC155 $5.50     

DAR EL CINI, a subtle aroma and mildly aphrodisaiac cinnamon is offered to perfume such classic dishes as b'stilla, sliced orange salad, and various kdras. Please ask us for recipes. 15 grams (.52 oz.)

E157 $6.00