Afghanistan Wild Mountain Cumin

size
$9.99

Heray Wild Mountain Cumin grows on the pristine land and mountains of Badakhshan, Afghanistan. The local methods of hand-harvesting and sun-drying give these seeds a robust in flavor and smell. Wild Cumin is also famous as Shah Zira in some cultures. Cumin is used in different recipes of curries, soups, rice, meats, in the form of toasted in oil or sprinkled over before grilling or roasting.

SINGLE ORIGIN: This is Afghani black wild mountain cumin also known as (Zira) only grows wild on the pristine mountains of Hind Kush Badakhshan, Afghanistan. Heray Spice is an Afghan owned business. The owners of Heray Spice are Afghan American who have been farmers for generations. They previously were US Army linguists in Afghanistan from 2008 – 2014. They have access to their friends and families inside Afghanistan and they travel frequently to import this rare and wild cumin.

NATURAL AND WILD CUMIN: Our cumin is grown naturally and wildly in mountains and is harvested artisanally by local foragers. The rocky stone and soil of Badakhshan helps nurture an ancient varietal of cumin with a warm and strong flavor and unforgettable aroma. No pesticides or chemical used in its cultivation and harvesting.

STRONG FALVOR: Since this is wild mountain cumin, it has a strong mixed of savory, sweet and warm flavors. You can feel its aroma the moment you open the jar, and you will feel the taste and flavor of it by its penetrating smell and savory taste.

ALSO FAMOUS: Afghanistan cumin is famous for being the Shah Zira or (King of Cumin) in India and other South Asian countries. This cumin is harvested only for local consumption in Kabul and Badakhshan and Heray is one of the only few companies that can import rare Afghani cumin and other ingredients. Heray Spice is one of the only Afghani companies that import cumin to USA.
Our saffron is used by fine dining establishments and home-chefs across the country. We have clients, like Maple And Ash, Parachute Chicago, Drake Hotel Chicago, Gibson's Group and many more.

Heray Spice is owned and operated by immigrants from Afghanistan and Heray Farmers Coop who cultivate and grow saffron for a living.
Our Co-op is consist of 28 family farmers; who have been farming for generations.

Quick Facts


Origin: Badakhshan, Afghanistan

Net Wt. 2 oz. (55g)
Net Wt. 16 oz. (455g)

Tasting notes: Earthy, Grilled Onion, Nutty-Sweet

Ingredients: 100% Whole Wild Mountain Cumin (Bunium Persicum)

Distributed By: Heray Spice LLC

A Public Benefit Corporation Based in Chicago, IL, 60613

Non-GMO, Non-Irradiated, Free of Preservatives, fillers, soy, egg, nuts, and dairy.

Spices are filed by weight, not by volume and may settle after packing.

HERAY SPICE is more than a spice brand; it's a heartwarming journey. We are a Chicago based business, and a cooperative of Afghan farmers, dedicated to sharing their incredible spices with the world. Through the embrace of fair-trade principles, we uplift these hardworking families. Learn More Here.

  • Our Saffron is a treasure cultivated in the vibrant fields of Afghanistan, where ideal climate and rich soil contribute to its exceptional quality. Grown with care and harvested by skilled hands, our saffron embodies the essence of centuries-old traditions and a commitment to excellence.
  • Our saffron threads are meticulously handpicked from the delicate stigma of the Crocus sativus flower, ensuring only the finest and most vibrant strands make their way to your kitchen. Each thread holds a world of flavor, fragrance, and vibrant golden color, infusing your culinary creations with a touch of luxury and sophistication.
  • With its distinctive aroma and delicate floral notes, our saffron elevates dishes to new heights. It has a complex flavor profile that combines hints of honey, earthiness, and a slight bitter-sweetness. This versatile spice enhances both savory and sweet dishes, from savory rice and aromatic stews to delectable desserts and indulgent beverages.
  • We take pride in sourcing saffron directly from local Afghan farmers who employ sustainable agricultural practices. By supporting fair trade principles, we empower farmers and contribute to their livelihoods, promoting a positive impact on local communities.
  • Every strand of our saffron represents a dedication to quality, authenticity, and the preservation of cultural heritage. From the vibrant fields of Afghanistan to your kitchen, experience the allure of our saffron as it weaves its magic into your culinary creations, creating memorable moments that transcend taste and aroma.
  • Heray Spice farmers co-op is cultivating, growing, and harvesting Saffron since 2007. Heray Spice is one of the only few Afghani companies that import pure Afghanistan saffron to international markets.
  • Saffron is famous to be used in rice, bean, tea, paella, curries, chicken, and meat. Some other examples of saffron recipes are saffron risotto, and saffron Tahdig.
  • Our harvest time is November - December every year. That is when saffron is being collected by hands.
  • Our saffron has no additives, no Artificial Dyes, no preservatives, and it is Gluten Free.

Recipes

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Our Mission

Importing fresh & flavorful spices while uplifting Afghanistan's farming community via fair-trade prices for their crops.

Promoting the cultivation of saffron & healthy crops as an alternative to poppy farming, offering farmers a better livelihood.Β 

Why Buy From US?

Gauranteed freshest and highest quality

We promise to satisfy you, or we’ll replace / refund it

Testimony from other customers

Over 750 5-star reviews, including Amazon, Etsy, and our website

Ethically Sourced, Mission Driven

Sourcing Ethically and Sustainably From Small Farm holder in Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Turkey.

Helping Educational Charities Inside Afghanistan

Donating 5% of our net income toΒ CodeToInspire non-for-profit, helping Afghan girls learn coding online

Hear It From Them

Read Verified Customer Reviews
Catherine D.Verified Customer Review

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!

Joyce S.Verified Customer Review

The items purchased at Heray Spice are very flavorful and of excellent quality!!

Brittany W.Verified Customer Review

So fresh! 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.

Eileen L.Verified Customer Review

Though I ordered cardamom,
I’ve always wanted to try harissa, and it was a happy surprise!

Claire R.Verified Customer Review

This is some of the finest saffron I've tasted, the freshness and quality is noticeably better to what you find in regular stores. I especially appreciate the company's mission and ethics, you can see the layers of intention and attention woven into every detail. Thanks, Heray, for a great product!

Based on 150 reviews
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Heray Spice
Anne T.

What a find! This is a wholesale & mail order business but accommodates local retail customers. Could not be friendlier.
Thank you, it is definitely worth the trip.

Fabulous fragrance and flavor

The mountain cumin has a delicious flavor. Perfect for red pepper and walnut pate. Highly recommend!!!!

Hi Lisa, Thank you for your kind words! We're thrilled to hear that you're enjoying the flavor of our mountain cumin. It's definitely a delicious addition to any dish, especially in our red pepper and walnut pate. Your 5-star reivew means a lot to us.
-- Mohammad Salehi

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Heray Spice
Evan A.

Owner is a great guy and his spices are top notch quality. You cannot go wrong with any purchase from Heray Spice. I also highly recommend his harissa spice blend for an easy great tasting seasoning to any meat.

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Heray Spice
Olivia M.

Wow. What an incredible family story and business. We are so excited to use our spices to make cardamom cake and other goodies. Thank you so much!

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Heray Spice
Chelsea M.

I love Heray Spice. I'm so happy I found this for my saffron needs. This order I added the Pistachio Brittle for my son. He is excited to try it!

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Heray Spice
Square F.P.
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Heray Spice
Fawzia H.

I have ordered Saffron from Heray Spice a number of times and have never been disappointed. I also use their spices at home, and our restaurant. Either way, they're wonderful. They arrive quickly and are always in great condition. I will definitely be ordering again!

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Heray Spice
Sabir K.

Heray spice services are impeccable, their products are amazing, and the prices are fair. The products that I receive are always excellent, orders arrive in a timely manner and they are always well packaged. They are excellent at what they do. Thank you!

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Heray Spice
Robert B.
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Heray Spice
Shirley P.

I sat with you as you ate lunch at the One of a Kind festival Saturday. I bought a box of your candy. It is captivating and delicious. I will be ordering more.
Thank you for bringing such a delicious product to Chicago.

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Heray Spice
Trishla S.

Lovely spices! Very fresh and high quality.

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Heray Spice
Diana G.

It is hard to know where your food comes from these days...especially dried spices. I have no idea where the spices came from and how long they have been sitting on the shelf. I am so grateful to Mohammed and his wife Anita for their wonderful business Heray Spice. They are so generous with their time and have helped to explain exactly where everything comes from and take such pride in their products. In addition to the freshest spices I have had the pleasure to buy, their mission to give back to the farmers and community is amazing. I encourage you to shop from them, you won't regret it!

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Heray Spice
Marc M.

OMG. I love small business and love when these businesses take the time to cultivate and establish their client base. Heray Spice is one of those, of which I speak. I had a taste for Saffron rice and was not finding decent saffron, as I remembered from when I was young. I saw the listing for Heray Spice and called. Mohammad was most kind and we set up to meet. I was delayed by an accident and he was most kind to wait. What I found, beyond his warm greetings, was some of the finest kesar in Chicago. Show this man some love! If you need real saffron, call now. I am not a paid spokesperson. Peace!

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Heray Spice
Nahzatullah J.

I have been using Heray Saffron since 2017 and I found it high quality and tasty. Plus the prices are very reasonable. Thank you for your great customer service and amazing Saffron.

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Heray Spice
Dawood S.

The best saffron in the world. Love this company's product.I highly recommend it

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Heray Spice
Mansoor

I love this saffron. Best flavor, best smell, makes the foods delicious.

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Heray Spice
Mohammad Z.

Amazing product !

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Heray Spice
Yamin A.

I love the Heray Saffron