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