Annatto Achiote (Bixa orellana)

Vibrant Natural Dye and Spice

Common Names: Annatto, Achiote, Lipstick Tree, Urucum, Roucou
Family: Bixaceae
Origin: Tropical Americas

Annatto (Bixa orellana), also known as Achiote or the Lipstick Tree, is a tropical shrub or small tree native to the Americas, prized for its bright red seeds used as a natural dye and spice. The seeds, contained within spiny red pods, produce a vivid yellow to orange dye, traditionally used for coloring food, cosmetics, and textiles. In cooking, annatto seeds are used for their mild, earthy flavor, often added to dishes for color and flavor enhancement, especially in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines. Besides its culinary and cosmetic uses, annatto has been valued for its medicinal properties, offering antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value

Seeds: Annatto seeds are small, reddish-brown, and stored inside prickly, heart-shaped pods. The seeds are ground into powder or steeped in oil to create a natural food coloring or spice. They have a mild, peppery flavor with hints of nutmeg and are used in rice dishes, stews, and marinades.

Foliage and Flowers: The tree produces heart-shaped, bright green leaves and clusters of pink to white flowers that bloom throughout the year.

Growth Habit: Annatto grows as a shrub or small tree, reaching 6-20 feet in height, with a bushy, upright growth habit. It is well-suited to tropical and subtropical gardens.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

In the kitchen, annatto seeds are used to add a warm, golden color and subtle flavor to a variety of dishes, including arroz con pollo, tamales, and adobo. It is also the natural colorant in cheeses like cheddar and butter. Annatto oil, made by steeping the seeds in oil, is a popular ingredient in Latin American and Caribbean cuisine.

Medicinally, annatto has been used in traditional medicine for its antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. The seeds and leaves have been used to treat digestive issues, skin conditions, and high blood pressure. The plant is also rich in tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E, which supports skin and heart health.