Aceite de Achiote (Annatto Oil)
Aceite de achiote or annatto oil is used to add color to food. Annatto is an orange-red condiment and food coloring derived from the seeds of the achiote tree, native to tropical parts of the Americas. Annatto is the main component in sazón, which gives food an orange color.
Equipment
- 1 small pot
- 1 strainer
- 1 funnel
- 1 glass bottle with lid see notes for links!
Ingredients
- 2 cups avocado oil or any neutral oil
- 1/2 cup annatto seeds
- 6 cloves garlic optional
Instructions
- Place a small pot over medium low heat.
- Add the oil and annatto seeds.
- Cook for about 5 minutes or until the oil turns bright red. Be careful the oil doesn't get too hot or the seeds will burn and turn bitter.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool for about 20 minutes.
- Place a strainer over a funnel and pour the oil into a glass bottle.
- Store the annatto oil at room temperature for up to one month.