How to Make Achiote Paste from Scratch
A traditional achiote paste, suitable for Southeastern Mexican dishes or as a meat rub, can be easily prepared from annatto seeds and a blend of spices.
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Instructions
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Grind 1/4 cup annatto seeds, 1 tablespoon coriander seeds, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon cumin seeds, 1 teaspoon black peppercorns, and 2 whole cloves using a spice mill or mortar and pestle.
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Blend the ground spices with 1 teaspoon kosher salt, 5 garlic cloves, and 1/2 cup bitter orange juice (or 1/4 cup orange juice plus 1/4 cup Mexican lime juice, or 1/3 cup white vinegar) until smooth.
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Refrigerate the achiote paste in an airtight container.