


It imparts a smoky and rich flavour similar to cayenne pepper and paprika. You can make it from different types of red chilli peppers. If spicy food is your thing, you can also use it as a spread for sandwiches. This hot chilli paste is used in North Africa and France. It is native to the Northwest African region of Maghreb and has an intense flavour that adds heat to many meat dishes. You can make it at home with a handful of ingredients or purchase it at a well-stocked Middle-Eastern supermarket. Made with chilies, garlic, caraway seeds and coriander, it can be replaced with achiote paste when you can’t find it at your local grocery store. If you are wondering what is achiote substitute that is similar to this ruby paste, then harissa is the answer.

Don’t worry here are some great substitutes you can try. If you are not living in Latin and South America, chances are you might not find achiote paste at your local store or supermarket. It includes meat, rice, soup, fish, paella, and some yucca dishes. When you cook with or sauté in the lard, it adds flavour and colour to any savoury dish. Annatto seeds are steeped in oil to make achiote oil. Only two ingredients are used to make achiote oil i.e. It can last up to three years when you store it in a dark, cool, dry place. When mixed with other spices and herbs, it turns into an achiote paste to marinate red meat, poultry and fish. In fact, it is used to colour cheddar cheese and butter. Its powder form can turn your food shades of orange, deep-red and yellow depending on the ingredients and cooking method. You can keep it stored in an air-tight jar in the refrigerator for a few months. Native to American tropical areas, it is commonly used in South American, Mexican, Filipino and Central American cooking. Made from ground annatto seeds or achiote, spices and herbs, this spice has a subtle flavour that has been described as earthy, sweet and nutty with a peppery aroma. Other varieties of achiote include achiote oil and liquid solution. The common forms of achiote are powder form, achiote paste, and achiote oil.
