Recado Rojo: The Essential Yucatan Spice Paste (Authentic Recipe)

By Maya Gonzalez · May 26, 2026

What Is Recado Rojo?

Recado rojo, also known as achiote paste, is a vibrant red spice paste from the Yucatan Peninsula. It's the foundation of cochinita pibil, tacos al pastor, and pollo pibil.

Key Ingredients

Annatto seeds (50g), cumin seeds (1 tsp), black peppercorns (1 tsp), cloves (5 whole), allspice (5 berries), oregano (1 tbsp), garlic (6 cloves), bitter orange juice (1/2 cup).

Step-by-Step Method

1. Toast annatto seeds and spices for 2 minutes. 2. Grind to fine powder. 3. Combine with oregano, garlic, salt, and citrus juice. 4. Blend until smooth paste forms. 5. Shape into a block or store in jar.

How to Use

Dissolve 2-3 tablespoons in citrus juice to make a marinade. Coat pork for cochinita pibil, marinate chicken 4+ hours, or rub on fish before grilling. Keeps refrigerated for 3 months.

Where to Buy

Pre-made recado rojo is available at Latin markets (brands like El Yucateco). Homemade paste is far more aromatic and lets you control the salt and citrus levels.