Annatto powder is excellent if you want orange- or red-colored hands for fall celebrations. However, this spice is more commonly used to color soups, rice and meat. The powder is made from the seeds found inside the fruit of the bixa orellana plant. Annatto seeds are covered in a thin layer of red-orange pulp, which is removed from the seed for use as annatto powder. Annatto powder may also be called achiote powder or achote powder.
1. Mix equal volume measurements powder and cooking oil in a small bowl.
2. Stir the ingredients together until thoroughly combined.
3. Use the oil to sauté onions, garlic and meat; the oil will impart a yellow, orange or red hue to your dish, depending on how much powder you use.
4. Melt butter in a pan and add annatto powder for a richly colored and flavored dark roux.
