Achitote powder

Achiote powder is a dark red, tart tasting powder made from annotto seed. In Mexico this is called achiote powder. The powder is used both as a flavoring and a colorant. Annatto powder can be hard to find. It is easy to find it in seed form (try Mexican grocery stores) but the seeds are very hard and difficult to grind even in a coffee grinder.

If you don't have achiote powder, grind 1 teaspoon whole annotto (achiote) seed (this is very hard on your blender blade)

OR> For 1 teaspoon annatto powder substitute 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon safflower threads, crushed (a substitute for color but not for flavor)

OR> For Filipino recipes substitute 1/8 teaspoon red food coloring for 1 tablespoon achuete needed (for color not for flavor)