Achiote

Used to color foods. Gives a very attractive pale orange-red color to rice and many other dishes.

Combine 4 tbsp. of annatto seeds with 1 cup of cooking oil or shortening in a small caldero or saucepan. Cook over low heat until seeds until oil turns red/orange. Be careful that this doesn't burn because the oil will turn bitter and will need to be tossed. Cool thoroughly, strain and jar. Store in refrigerator until needed. Discard seeds.