Annatto Seeds: Color and Flavor Guide

By Maya Gonzalez · October 10, 2026

What Are Annatto Seeds?

Annatto seeds come from the achiote tree (Bixa orellana), native to tropical Americas. They are prized for their vivid orange-red color and mild, earthy flavor with notes of pepper and nutmeg.

Color Power

Annatto is one of the oldest natural food colorings. It gives cheddar cheese its orange hue, colors Mexican rice, and is used in Filipino dishes like chicken inasal.

How to Use Annatto

Oil infusion: Steep seeds in warm oil for 15 minutes, then strain
Water infusion: Simmer seeds in water for coloring rice or dough
Ground paste: Mix ground annatto with vinegar and spices for marinades

Recado Rojo

In Yucatecan cuisine, annatto paste (recado rojo) is the foundation of cochinita pibil. The paste combines annatto with oregano, cumin, garlic, and bitter orange juice.

Storage

Store whole seeds in a cool, dark place for up to 3 years. Ground annatto loses potency after 6 months. Keep annatto oil refrigerated for up to 2 weeks.