Annatto

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Annatto

Annatto

Classification: Herbs & Spices

Bixa orellana

Specific Features:
  •   Edible Raw: YES
  Important Seasons
  •   Year-round

Annatto seeds come from the achiote tree. The USDA lists annatto as a substance for coloring various foods, like cheese, and as a textile coloring, but it is also used as a condiment for its mild, pepper-like flavor. 

  Preparing Tips

Annatto seeds are extremely hard and therefore very difficult to grind. You might consider buying the seeds already ground.

  Nutritional/Medicinal Information

Some people are sensitive to Annatto, but it's considered safe in small amounts.

  Distinctive Uses

Annatto is used to make sauces and to flavor many different types of dishes in Vietnam, Mexico and other Latin American countries.

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