Other Names
Achiote
Mexico, Caribbean islands
Annato
Caribbean islands, South America
Roucou
Trinidad and Tobago, Martinique, Guadalupe
Achuete
Philippines
Description
Achiote seeds are the seeds from the evergreen Bixa orellana shrub found in the Caribbean and Central America. The seeds do not have much of a flavor when used in small quantities, primarily lending a yellow color to dishes. When used in larger amounts, achiote imparts a peppery flavor that is slightly bitter.