Ground Annatto Seeds

Annatto seeds are the dried reddish seeds of the Annatto Tree that give food a bright orange-yellow tint.

They are usually cooked first in hot fat; then the seeds are discarded. Often they are ground to a powder and stirred into such foods as butter for color.

A bit about ground annatto and that gorgeous orange hue. Ground annatto is like sunshine in a spice jar, brightening up everything it touches. From rice to soups to stews, a pinch of annatto adds a pop of color that's sure to impress your dinner guests.

There's more to annatto than just its stunning appearance. This little spice packs a punch when it comes to flavor. With hints of earthiness, sweetness, and a subtle peppery kick, it adds depth and complexity to your favorite dishes. Whether you're cooking up a storm or just adding a dash of flair to your weeknight meals, ground annatto is sure to delight your taste buds.

One of the best things about ground annatto is its versatility. From savory to sweet, breakfast to dinner, there's no limit to what you can do with this spice. Use it to marinate meats, color sauces, or even add a twist to your morning pancakes. The possibilities are endless.

Ground annatto is more than just a spice, it's a symbol of culinary creativity and cultural diversity. Used for centuries in Latin American, Caribbean, and Southeast Asian cuisines, it adds not only color but also depth of flavor to dishes.

In addition to its culinary uses, annatto has a long history of medicinal and cosmetic applications. In traditional medicine, it's been used to treat everything from digestive issues to skin ailments. And in the beauty world, it's prized for its natural dyeing properties, used to tint fabrics, cosmetics, and even hair.

Ground annatto is low in calories and fat, but it's rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. It also contains small amounts of essential nutrients like iron, calcium, and vitamin C.

Store ground annatto in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness and flavor. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, heat, or moisture, as this can cause it to lose its potency. Ground annatto has a shelf life of about 1-2 years when stored properly. To extend its shelf life, consider storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.