| If you're hoping that Achiote is related to Peyote, I'm | | | | Prep Time: 5 minutes |
| sorry to say it isn't. Fortunately (or unfortunately for | | | | Cook Time: 25 minutes |
| some), this spice is cheap, uniquely flavorful, and free | | | | Total Time: 30 minutes |
| of psychoactive alkaloids. If I rekindled "flower | | | | Ingredients |
| power" flashbacks, I'm sorry. I'll re-direct you to the | | | | 3 tablespoons of olive oil |
| subject at hand. This Spanish inspired dish uses the | | | | 1 large (1 1/2 cups) Vidalia onion - chopped |
| uncommon powdery/pasty spice called achiote. It can | | | | 1 tablespoon of achiote paste |
| be used in rice dishes instead of the well known and | | | | 3 cups of chicken stock |
| expensive spice, saffron. | | | | 1 1/2 cups of long grain white rice |
| Achiote is a small tree/shrub that grows in the | | | | 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt |
| tropical regions of the Americas and Southeast Asia. | | | | Preparation |
| It was introduced by the Spanish in the 17th century. | | | | In a medium sized pot over medium-high heat add |
| Besides being a spice it has historically been used as | | | | olive oil and onions. Cook until onion is translucent. |
| body paint and coloring of certain foods. | | | | Add achiote paste and chicken stock to the pot. |
| Now that you have a background regarding this spice | | | | Bring to a boil then simmer for 5 minutes. Add rice |
| maybe you'll give this recipe a try. This food is low | | | | and salt, then bring to a boil, cover pot and simmer |
| fat, simple to make, and prepared in less than 30 | | | | for 15-25 minutes, or until rice is tender. Remove |
| minutes. Give this Spanish style dish a try, I'm sure | | | | from heat and let rice sit covered for 5 minutes. |
| you won't be disappointed! | | | | Stir the rice and serve immediately |
| Difficulty (Scale from 1-10): 4 | | | | Enjoy your rice! |
| Serves: 6 | | | | |