Puerto Rico Sauces & Condiments Oils

Achiote

(Puerto Rican annatto oil)

Yield: about 2 cups


INGREDIENTS PREP AMOUNT
Oil, vegetable 2 cups
Annatto seeds 1 cup

METHOD

Basic Steps:  Infuse → Cool → Strain
  1. Mix oil and seeds together in a small saucepan. Heat over medium heat until seeds start to bubble. Simmer over heat for 5-10 minutes, or until oil colors a deep reddish-orange.
  2. Cool, strain and store in a cool place.

VARIATIONS

  • Substitute a little turmeric, paprika or saffron in a recipe if achiote is unavailable.

NOTES

  • This oil is used around the Caribbean to add a yellowish-orange color to dishes, especially arroz con pollo. It is known as rou-cou or huile de rou-cou in the French Caribbean.