This special spice lends a rich red-orange color to foods.

Heres everything it’s crucial that you know about this unique spice.

Some mustards, margarines, and snacks like Goldfish and Cheeze-It crackers also contain annatto.

Annatto seeds and ground

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It isnt just for color, though.

Annatto comes with its own special flavor, which is why its also used as a spice.

Take a whiff of annatto and youll be greeted by a nutty, floral aroma.

Annatto seeds in a white bowl

Simply Recipes / Lori Rice

The flavor of annatto is best described as mildly sweet and spicy, with some earthy, musky notes.

You may also find it at well-stocked spice shops.

Alternatively, it is readily available online.

Ground annatto and whole annatto

Simply Recipes / Lori Rice

If properly stored, it will stay fresh for up to three years.

Both the paste and oil are better stored in sealed containers in the refrigerator once opened.

Annatto is used in a number of traditional Latin American and Filipino dishes to provide color and flavor.

Its a popular option because of its convenience.

Here are a few recipes that use annatto if you want to try out its unique flavor!

Substitutes

Given that annatto is so unique, there isnt an exact substitute for the spice.