Aspiring Achiote Rice

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.

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!!

By: Peter Alfieri

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Peter Alfieri is the host for the cooking TV show Buon Appetito Providence, the show's webpage is here: www.BuonAppetitoProvidence.com . He brings simple to sophisticated cooking for all of the New England Area. His style appeals to both novice and expert chefs! Watch your local listings to see this truly fantastic cooking show. Recipes can be found here: www.BuonAppetitoProvidence.com/Recipes/Recipes.htm Peter also has a BS in Biology, a BS in Chemistry, a Minor in Mathematics, and a 3 year nursing degree (for RN).