Make your own sazon at home!
Some variations also use turmeric, paprika, or saffron.
The flavor profile is garlicky, but not fiery.
Marisel Salazar / Simply Recipes
Achiote or annatto has a sweet and peppery taste.
Freshly ground coriander adds a lovely citrus aroma.
Sazons savory flavors stem from the cumin, onion, and garlic powder.
Marisel Salazar / Simply Recipes
Its mild astringency comes from oregano.
Our classic homemade sazon spice mix recipe makes about 1/2 cup of spice blend or 8 tablespoons.
This will be enough to use in a few dishes before you better make more.
Marisel Salazar / Simply Recipes
What are Annatto or Achiote Seeds?
The words annatto or achiote are used interchangeablythe seeds are most commonly used as a food dye and seasoning.
Without annatto, many of the foods we know would actually be quite pale.
Can You Swap Annatto or Achiote Seeds?
Specialty grocery stores or online shops carry annatto/achiote seeds or powder.
These substitutes will give your sazon its deep red hue.
If using one of these swaps, the flavor profile of your sazon will change slightly.
Saffron has a sweet, floral, and earthy taste.
Turmeric is also earthy and musky, a tad bitter, and peppery.
If properly stored, sazon can last for up to one year.
Process for 10-25 seconds, until your spices resemble a fine powder, with little to no large chunks.
Crush the spices with firm pressure and continue grinding until you reach the desired texture.
Funnel sazon into a container and cover tightly.
