Achiote seed

Achiote (annatto) is used both as a spice and a dye. It is the "yellow" coloring in margarine but is commonly used in Mexican and Indian cooking. Annatto is available in whole seed, powder, and paste (used for a Yucatan specialty "recado")

Where To Buy Achiote Seed

You can purchase whole achiote seed in most Hispanic grocery stores, or purchase it online at Amazon.com.

If you don't have achiote seed, you can substitute:

• Per 1 1/2 tsp achiote seed substitute 1 teaspoon ground achiote powder
• OR - Alternately use 1/2 teaspoon turmeric and 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika (lacks tart flavor)
• OR - For color only,  use one teaspoon of crushed safflower florets.