Recado Rojo (Yucatecan Achiote Paste)

2 Instructions

1. 1

   If using whole annatto seeds instead of paste, soak them in the water and vinegar overnight to soften.

2. 2

   Combine all ingredients in the blender: the achiote paste or soaked seeds, cumin, oregano, peppercorns, allspice, garlic, chiles, sour orange juice, water, and vinegar.

3. 3

   Blend until completely smooth and silky - a couple of minutes on high.

4. 4

   Pass through a fine-mesh sieve to catch any seed grit. Discard the solids and keep the silky red liquid-paste.

5. 5

   Use immediately as a marinade for pork (cochinita pibil), chicken (pollo pibil), or fish (tikin xic). Rub it onto the meat and marinate at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.