Zereshk is the small, intensely tart dried barberry (Berberis vulgaris) that defines zereshk polo — the Persian saffron rice dish that takes its name from this berry. No substitution produces the same result: the sharp acidity, the vivid crimson colour, and the clean fruit note underneath are specific to Berberis vulgaris and cannot be replicated with other dried fruits.

The berries are small and oblong, deep crimson when dried, with a flavour that is sharply acidic with a clean, distinct fruit character underneath. Because they are dried, zereshk requires a short soak before cooking — five to ten minutes in warm water is enough to rehydrate the berries without leaching their colour into the soaking water. Once soaked, they are ready for zereshk polo, shirin polo, as a garnish for pilaf, or in small quantities in Persian sauces and dishes.

Available in five sizes — 100g, 250g, 500g, 1kg, and 2kg — to suit a single meal or regular bulk use. Sourced and packaged through a Turkish specialist herbs and spices supplier.