Mix with oregano, cumin, peppercorns, allspice, garlic cloves, water, vinegar and salt to make achiote paste, a rub for chicken or pork.

"As a child, ground annatto was a staple in my house. I like to add it to my rice, red salsas, and soups, but mostly I use a combination of ground annatto, cumin, garlic, salt and fresh squeezed orange or pineapple juice to marinate pork, seafood, or other proteins before throwing it in a skillet. It's also featured in Cochinita Pibil - a traditional slow-roasted pork wrapped in banana leaves and marinated with a ton of annatto and other spices. It continues to be a dish my mom and I cook on the regular." - Karen's Staff Picks, 2021