What Can You Cook With Annatto?

Everything You Need to Know About Annatto

Annattos, a hidden gem in the world of herbs and spices, is known for its vibrant color and subtle, peppery flavor. Its notoriety is not merely from its culinary uses, but it’s also the health benefits it offers. Let’s delve into the enticing world of this fascinating spice.

The Vivid Roots of Annattos (Achiote)

Known universally as ‘Annatto’ or in parts of South America, Mexico, and the Caribbean as ‘Achiote’, this spice is derived from the seeds of the Bixa orellana plant. Its roots trace back to tropical regions across the Americas where people continue to use it as a natural food colouring and seasoning agent. The Aztecs, man-made civilization, were amongst the first to discover its varied uses, often deploying it as body paint and in rituals. It was only when the Spanish Conquistadors came to the New World that Achiote was introduced to Europe and subsequently to the rest of the world. [1]

Annattos: A Spice Worth Its Weight In Health

While Annatto’s culinary potential is appreciated globally, its health benefits are slowly starting to gain recognition. Dense with antioxidants and carotenoids, particularly bixin and norbixin, it aids in fighting premature aging and promoting eye health. [2] Moreover, studies suggest that its high concentration of Tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E, may help reduce cholesterol levels and contribute to heart health. [3]

Annatto also houses a high amount of Calcium and Fiber, vital for guided bone growth and digestive health. In addition to these, traditional medicines have used Annatto for it’s antiseptic, antidote and astringent properties, further cementing its significance in well-being and sustenance.

A Deeper Dive into Annattos’

The versatility of Annattos is incredible – something that’s exemplified when checking out the many forms it takes in world cuisines. In powdered and seed form, it is extensively used in Mexican and Filipino cooking, coloring and flavoring their traditional rice and meat dishes. Its subtly sweet and slightly peppery flavor leaves a unique taste on the palate. In Africa, it is used similarly, albeit ground into paste form often combined with other spices.

So here’s to Annattos: the humble spice that does it all, from brightening dishes with its intense sunset hues to bestowing upon its consumers a wealth of health benefits. Once you start incorporating it into your cooking, you’ll soon find that it’s an integral ingredient in your spice cupboard.