It’s been called many things, but achiote (ah-chee-oh-tay) is a bright red spice native to South America.
It’s a type of seed commonly used to add flavor and bright orange or yellow color to dishes in Latin American, Spanish, and Southeast Asian cuisines.
The earthy, peppery seed is often ground into a paste with garlic and spices like cumin, coriander, and peppercorns to bring that extra kick to marinated meats and sauces.
It’s in the inception phase, with only 11 percent of consumers having tried it, according to Datassential; but it boasts big growth when used in interesting ways.
Cooking Colorfully
Similarly to cooking with beets or turmeric, cooking with achiote lends bright color to dishes. Because real saffron can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 a pound (per Datassential), achiote is sometimes called the “poor man’s saffron.” A distinctive bright yellow or orange hue is cast when using achiote in mole sauces and tamales.
Tell Me About Tacos
Achiote is often used as a marinade or dry rub for chicken and pork in Latin American cuisine, as well as serving as an integral marinade ingredient in al pastor, crisp-thin shavings of vertical, spit-roasted pork.
Consider using the spice alongside chipotle as a marinade for shrimp tacos; add to your restaurant’s chile con queso to make it all your own. Whether it’s in the meats or turned into a colorful crema, achiote is perfect for your taco offerings.
Surprising Places
Achiote can be added to dressings for a global spin. Try in ranch dressing: drizzle it on a crispy chicken salad or use as a dip for onion rings. Use a dash in a gourmet, grown-up version of macaroni and cheese. Or take Datassential’s insight and use it in… desserts?
“Achiote isn’t normally associated with desserts,” the March 2018 On the Menu report says, “but with natural ingredients trending and highly sought out by consumers, operators could use the spice as an alternative to artificial food coloring.”
Your Sourcing Solution
Craving some color? Dot Foods is your sample solution for achiote. Sample achiote powder and paste to make your dishes more flavorful and colorful with Latin flare. What’s your innovative vision with this spice?
Visit our website to add color and spice to the menu.