Mohammed Salehi, founder of Heray Spice, based in Chicago, has been selling saffron in the US since 2017. He also recently introduced Afghan tea and cumin to his buyers. Salehi was an interpreter for the US military in Afghanistan, allowing him to arrive in the US on a special visa in 2014.
It is a warm spring afternoon in Herat Province in western Afghanistan. The winter was unseasonably short, and Mohammad Salehi is concerned that might have affected the sun-loving crops.
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With its bright red threads and hint of sweetness, saffron is a distinctive spice that requires a lot of work to cultivate. One Chicago-based saffron company is providing restaurants and home cooks with the spice, all while supporting farmers nearly 7,000 miles away.MORE ON WTTW
As the most expensive spice in the world, saffron is an extremely lucrative product. With limited production and growing demand, the spice has become increasingly vulnerable to adulteration and counterfeits.READ MORE ON FOODUNFOLDED.COM
One taste of Muhammad's saffron in your risotto will convert you forever! Price is very reasonable for an artisanal product, and this small company does right by its farmers as well.
Dear Anne,
Thank you for the kind words.I am honored that you are enjoying your saffron risotto. I appreicate the 5-star ratings.
-- Mohammad S.
I continue to order from Heray Spice again and again, for myself and to give as gifts. The quality is excellent, and the packaging is attractive. And it's been very enjoyable to try new tests - the black lime powder is fantastic!
Dear Catherine,
Thank you for the kind 5-star review. We appreicate your support and gifting our spices. Please stay warm and enjoy.
I ordered the cumin and saffron, and wow! What you can buy in the grocery store smells stale and bland compared to this. I’ve recommended Heray Spice to all my other foodie friends.
Dear Brittany, thank you for the kind 5-star review. We are glad you are enjoy your fresh cumin. Yes, that is our promise, freshly harvested, ethically sourced saffron and spices.