Forktionary

Achiote Paste

Bixa orellana Condiment

Achiote Paste Condiment

At a Glance

  • Category Condiment

The Forktionary Angle

"Unlocking the ancient Mayan secret to vibrant color and earthy flavor in modern cuisine."

Definition

A vibrant, earthy paste made from ground annatto seeds, spices, and often citrus, used to impart a distinctive red-orange color and mild peppery flavor to Latin American dishes.

Natural Dye Potential Used as a food coloring (E160b) in cheese, butter, and snack foods.
Primary Culinary Use Marinades for pork and chicken (e.g., cochinita pibil).
Traditional Preservation Often blended with vinegar or citrus to extend shelf life.

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Achiote Paste are:

Earthy peppery slightly bitter subtly sweet often with a hint of citrus

Chef’s Secret

To soften and intensify flavor, gently warm achiote paste with a little oil before adding to marinades or sauces; it helps release the pigments and aromatics.

Best Substitutes

Paprika + Turmeric

Ratio 1:1

Annatto Seeds

ground & hydrated
Ratio 1:1

Smoked Paprika

for color/earthiness, less complex
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Look for pastes with annatto, vinegar, salt, and spices. Available in blocks or jars; check for natural ingredients and vibrant color.

Culinary Pairings

Pork chicken fish rice citrus oregano garlic cumin masa

Recipes Using Achiote Paste

Achiote Tilapia Super Simple image 118
15 Minutes Or Less Seafood Freshwater Fish Preparation

Achiote Tilapia Super Simple

Capture the vibrant flavors of Yucatan fish tacos with this incredibly easy achiote tilapia recipe! Inspired by a Ritz-Carlton recipe, this dish boasts tender, flavorful tilapia infused with a zesty achiote marinade. Ready in under 30 minutes, it's perfect for a weeknight meal. Serve with lime wedges, creamy avocado slices, and fresh cilantro for an authentic touch. This recipe is so simple, even a beginner can create restaurant-quality fish tacos!

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Achiote Marinade image 109
3 Steps Or Less Time To Make Preparation Marinades And Rubs

Achiote Marinade

Ignite your taste buds with this vibrant achiote marinade! Perfect for skirt steak, pork, or chicken, this recipe uses readily available ingredients to deliver an explosion of Mexican flavor. Find achiote paste in the spice or meat section of your local Latin American market, or easily make your own using online recipes. Marinate your protein for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight!) for maximum flavor penetration before grilling, pan-frying, or baking. This recipe is quick to prepare and delivers restaurant-quality results.

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Achiote Honey Glaze image
Preparation Time To Make 3 Steps Or Less Condiments Etc

Achiote Honey Glaze

Elevate your game, chicken, pork, or even fish with this vibrant and easy achiote honey glaze! A blend of earthy achiote paste, sweet honey, and a touch of salt creates a stunningly delicious glaze in just minutes. This recipe is perfect for weeknight meals and impressive dinners alike.

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Achiote Pork Torta Sandwiches image 120
Sandwiches Cuisine Lunch Sandwiches

Achiote Pork Torta Sandwiches

Score a home run with these unforgettable Achiote Pork Torta Sandwiches! Inspired by Baja: Cooking from the Edge, this recipe delivers incredibly flavorful pork, beautifully colored with vibrant achiote paste. Perfect for game day, picnics, or any occasion when you crave bold Mexican flavors. These aren't your average sandwiches – get ready for an explosion of taste!

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