THE FLAVOR SERIES WEEK-PART #2: MORE OF MY ACHIOTE OIL TO MAKE YOUR MEALS DELICIOUSLY GOLDEN!

Achióte is a natural food coloring spice, obtained by simmering the Achióte (Annatto) seeds in oil, strain them and then, discard the seeds. You can compare it with saffron, which is extremely expensive or to other similar options that are affordable such as; ground cumin, paprika, turmeric or those little coloring packs called Sazón, smile. 

The Achióte seeds are deep red, they grow inside some hairy pods. They also come from a tree that grows only in tropical areas like the Caribbean. Once you simmer the seeds in oil, they infuse the oil with this rich orange, reddish kind of color. Furthermore, it adds flavor and is also sweet-smelling. You can use it as you would any other cooking oil to cook your meals.

In Puerto Rico Achióte oil is used a lot and my favorite use is to provide color and flavor to the famous Pasteles de masa, or dough! Smile. Love it!
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You can purchase Achióte Seeds in any Latin or Asian Market where you live.
 
Category:  NATURAL ORGANIC FOOD COLORING
Approx. Prep and Cook Time:   15 Minutes
Approximate Cost:    $3.00
Difficulty Level:  Easy
Allergens, Other:  Gluten Free   __X__   Vegetarian __X__ 
Servings: 1 C.
 
Ingredients
1 c. olive oil ($2.00)
½ c. Achióte seeds ($1.00)
 
Directions
In a saucepan over med-low heat, combine the oil and Achióte seeds. Simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes until you see the oil colored by the Achióte. Remove from stove, drain, discard the seeds and allow to cool.
Pour into a glass container with lid and use to provide amber color to meals such as yellow rice, or simply use it as you would your oil for cooking. Refrigerate if you want, however, it doesn’t need to be refrigerated.