Achiote – Spanish Food Coloring

May 11, 2023May 11, 20230 1

Make your own Achiote spice blend at home

by The Chefin Spices

Prep

10 min

Cook

2 min

Ready In

12 min

Level

Very easy

Rating

Ingredients

	4 tablespoons annatto seeds
	1 cup corn oil

Nutrision Information

Servings Per Recipe

N/A

Calories

N/A

Sugar

N/A

Fat

N/A

Achiote spice blend is a popular ingredient in many Latin American and Caribbean dishes, especially those from Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula. It is often used to add flavor and color to meats, rice, and vegetables. Achiote is made from the seeds of the annatto tree, which are ground into a powder and mixed with oil to create a paste. The resulting blend is bright red in color and has a slightly sweet, nutty flavor with subtle hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

Instructions

1.	Toast the annatto seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
2.	Crush the toasted seeds into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or spice grinder.
3.	In a small bowl, mix the crushed annatto seeds with the corn oil until well combined.
4.	Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean jar or container.

PROS

Achiote spice blend is a flavorful addition to many dishes, including meats, rice, and vegetables.

It is versatile and easy to make at home with only two ingredients.

CONS

While achiote is generally considered safe when used in moderation, some people may experience allergic reactions to annatto seeds.

It is also high in fat and calories when used in large amounts.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Annatto seeds have been linked to several health benefits, including antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
They may also help to support liver and heart health.
However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.