Annatto Seed
Bixa orellanaThe hard, reddish seeds inside the pods of a tropical tree; boiling them in oil produces a natural orange-red dye. A natural colorant for Latin American cuisine and for many cheeses/butters worldwide.
What Is Annatto Seed?
Annatto seed is the hard, reddish-brown seed found inside the pods of a tropical tree (Bixa orellana). It is also known as "achiote" in Latin America, and has been used for centuries both as a food coloring and as a spice.
The seeds are not eaten directly; they are generally steeped in hot oil or water to release their color, then the seeds are strained out and discarded, and the color-carrying oil/water is used.
Nutritional Value of Annatto Seed
100 grams of annatto seed contains about 350 kcal of energy; since the amount used is very small, its practical nutritional contribution is limited, and it carries high fiber. Values are approximate.
How Should Annatto Seed Be Consumed?
Annatto seed is consumed as part of a balanced diet, used as a color and mild flavor addition to dishes, in moderate amounts.
This information is general; annatto seed is a spice, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Annatto Seed?
A good annatto seed is one with a dark red-brown color, hard-glossy grains, and no absorbed moisture.
- The color should be dark red-brown, not faded
- The grains should be hard and glossy, not powdered-crumbled
- It should not have absorbed moisture or stuck together
How to Store Annatto Seed?
Annatto seed can be stored for a long time in a closed container in a dry, dark cupboard; keeping it away from light preserves its color.
Using Annatto Seed in the Kitchen
Annatto seed is most often used to prepare coloring oil for Latin American rice and stew dishes, and worldwide as a natural coloring for some cheeses and butters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do annatto seed and saffron do the same job?
They share some similarities in color, but annatto lacks saffron's own complex aroma; annatto is used more for color, while saffron is used for both color and aroma.
How is annatto oil made at home?
The seeds are steeped in hot (not boiling) oil for a few minutes to release their color, then strained to prepare it.
Is annatto seed found in Turkey?
It is found in limited amounts; it can be found in gourmet markets and specialty stores selling Latin American products, and online.