Achiote Paste Spices

Achiote Paste Spices, or Recado Rojo, have a mild, salty and garlic flavour. Originating from Mexico, the spices are traditionally mixed with orange juice and garlic to make a paste. The paste is then smothered over chicken, pork or fish to be steamed or baked.

The spice mix, known as Sazón, is popular in Puerto Rico where it is used to marinade or rub meat and fish before grilling and barbecuing. Achiote paste is typically associated with the dish Pollo Pibil (chicken wrapped in banana leaves and then baked or steamed).

The versatile spice mix is also great when coated on chicken wings or drumsticks to bake or grill. You could also use with chicken breasts, then shred and fill soft taco shells with salad and splashes of hot sauce! You could also try this Achiote Roast Tomato And Egg Sandwich recipe.

Achiote paste spices are fantastic if you’re looking for a natural colouring agent, giving a reddish-orange hue to rice, stews, soups, marinades, sauces and even cheese.

Unsurprisingly, Achiote Paste Spice has been used as a natural dye for textiles and body paint by indigenous cultures across the Americas for centuries. The red colour holds cultural significance and is often associated with rituals and celebrations.

Historically, they’ve also been used for their medicinal properties, as it’s believed they have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.

To use, we suggest mixing 4 teaspoons with 2 crushed garlic cloves and 2 tablespoons of orange juice. This will make a spreadable paste.

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