Achiote primary image

Achiote

Bixa orellana

Achiote, scientifically known as Bixa orellana, is a vibrant tropical fruit native to Central and South America. It is often referred to as annatto and is celebrated for its striking reddish-orange hue, which comes from its outer seed coating. The fruit itself is heart-shaped and covered in short, stiff hairs. While the flesh is inedible, the seeds are highly valued for their coloring properties and are widely used as a natural food dye, imparting a rich, warm color to dishes. Achiote is also prized for its subtle, earthy flavor with hints of pepper and nutmeg. Beyond its culinary applications, achiote has a rich history in traditional medicine, where it has been used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Its versatility and cultural significance make it a fascinating ingredient in both culinary and medicinal contexts.

326
Calorías
4.2g
Fibra
4%
Vitamina C

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Achiote Información nutricional

Calorías
326
Por 100 g
Carbohidratos
46.1g
Por 100 g
Proteína
4.4g
Por 100 g
Fibra
4.2g
Por 100 g
Azúcar
0.5g
Por 100 g
Grasa
17.2g
Por 100 g

💊Vitaminas

Por 100 g

Vitamina C
4% VD
2.4mg
Supports immune function and skin health.
Vitamina E
30% VD
4.6mg
Acts as an antioxidant and supports skin health.

Minerales

Por 100 g

Calcio
4% VD
44mg
Essential for bone health and muscle function.
Hierro
21% VD
3.8mg
Crucial for oxygen transport in the blood.
Magnesio
7% VD
28mg
Supports nerve and muscle function.
🛡️Antioxidantes
CarotenoidsTocopherols
🌿Fitonutrientes
BixinNoribixinFlavonoids
📊Índice glucémico
40

Por porción

Desglose nutricional por porción

📏
Tamaño de porción
100g
Calorías
326kcal
Desglose
Carbohidratos
46.1g
Fibra
4.2g
17% VD
Azúcar
0.5g
Proteína
4.4g
Grasa
17.2g
Vitamina C
💊
2.4mg
4% VD
Potasio
282mg
6% VD

Beneficios para la salud de Achiote

Benefit 1: Rich in antioxidants like carotenoids and tocopherols, which help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation.
Benefit 2: High in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
Benefit 3: Contains vitamin E, which supports skin health and immune function.
Benefit 4: Provides a good source of iron, essential for preventing anemia and supporting energy levels.
Benefit 5: Natural source of bixin and norbixin, which have been studied for their potential anticancer properties.

Achiote Origen y distribución

Región de origen

Central and South America

Presencia global
Mexico
Brazil
Peru
Colombia
Principales productores
BrazilPeruMexico
Contexto histórico

Achiote has been used for centuries by indigenous cultures in Central and South America for its culinary and medicinal properties. It was introduced to Europe during the colonial period and has since been cultivated in tropical regions worldwide.

Achiote Temporada alta

Mejor época para disfrutar

Year-round in tropical regions

2 variedades disponibles

Achiote Variedades

Cada variedad ofrece sabores, texturas y usos culinarios únicos

Uratu

South America
Color
Deep orange-red seeds
Perfil de sabor
Earthy with peppery notes
Ideal para
Natural food coloring

Urucum

Brazil
Color
Bright red seeds
Perfil de sabor
Subtle, nutmeg-like flavor
Ideal para
Spice and colorant in culinary dishes

Achiote Guía de selección y conservación

Mantén tu fruta fresca y deliciosa por más tiempo

Cómo elegir la fruta perfecta

1

Look for seeds that are bright orange-red in color.

2

Avoid seeds that are dull or have a musty smell.

Métodos de conservación

Store achiote seeds in an airtight container.

Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Guía de vida útil

A temperatura ambiente
Up to 1 year
Refrigerado
Up to 2 years
Vida útil promedio
365 días

Instrucciones de congelación

Conserva la frescura por meses

1

Freezing is not recommended for achiote seeds.

2

Store in a cool, dry place instead.

Consejo

Etiqueta los alimentos congelados con la fecha para controlar la frescura. La mayoría de las frutas mantienen su calidad durante 2-3 meses si se congelan correctamente. Para mejores resultados, usa recipientes herméticos o bolsas para congelador para evitar quemaduras por congelación.

Viaje culinario

Descubre posibilidades deliciosas

Usos comunes

Natural food coloring for rice, meats, and sauces.
Spice in Latin American and Caribbean cuisines.
Ingredient in marinades and rubs for meat and poultry.

Maridajes perfectos

Rice dishes
Meat and poultry
Sauces and marinades
Baked goods for coloring

Recetas populares

Achiote-infused rice
Puerto Rican arroz con gandules
Mexican cochinita pibil

Bebidas refrescantes

Infused teas
Herbal tonics

Información de seguridad

Información de alergias:

Achiote may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Preocupaciones por pesticidas:

Generally low, but always wash seeds before use.

Quién debe evitarlo:
  • Individuals with known allergies to achiote.
  • Those with severe digestive issues.
Posibles efectos secundarios:
  • Possible allergic reactions.
  • Mild digestive discomfort in some individuals.
Seguridad en la preparación:
  • Wash seeds thoroughly before use.
  • Avoid inhaling the powdered form to prevent respiratory irritation.

Datos curiosos sobre Achiote

¡Trivias sorprendentes que te encantarán!

Achiote is often referred to as the 'lipstick tree' due to its vibrant red seeds.

It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.

Preguntas frecuentes

What is achiote used for?

General

Achiote is primarily used as a natural food coloring and spice in culinary dishes.

How do I choose fresh achiote seeds?

Buying

Look for bright orange-red seeds that are free of mold or discoloration.

How should I store achiote seeds?

Storage

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

What are some common culinary uses of achiote?

Culinary

Achiote is used in marinades, rice dishes, and as a natural food dye.

Is achiote nutritious?

Nutrition

Yes, achiote is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamin E.

Are there any health risks associated with achiote?

Health

Achiote is generally safe, but some individuals may experience allergic reactions.

Can achiote be used in beverages?

Miscellaneous

Yes, achiote can be infused into teas and tonics for added color and flavor.

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Impacto ambiental

Información de sostenibilidad

Resumen de sostenibilidad

Achiote is a sustainable crop that requires minimal water and pesticides.

Huella de carbono

Low carbon footprint due to minimal processing and transportation.

Uso de agua

Moderate water usage, primarily in tropical regions.

Local vs. importado

Often imported, but locally grown in tropical regions.