Annatto Seed is commonly used as a natural food dye and, when used sparingly, provides similar coloring to a dish as saffron. The seed has a mild peppery flavor and is a key ingredient in achiote paste. It’s commonly used in Caribbean and Latin American cuisines.
Annatto Seed comes from the flowering fruit tree of the lipstick tree and has been used throughout history for everything from body paint to warding off evil spirits.
Crush the spice and add a bit to your homemade dry rubs (especially for pork and fish) and in soups and rice dishes.