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Achiote or achiotl (Bixa Orellana) |
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Native and fast growing, originally from the Americas, achiote is known for its fast growth and abundant fruit. It grows easily in warm and humid climates, without requiring great care or protection.
 The seeds contain a natural coloring substance that the indigenous people have long used as a way to paint their faces and bodies for rituals.
Achiote also contains curative properties such as anti-inflammatory, which are used to treat burns and insect bites as well as sunscreen. However, it is most often used for gastronomical purposes and can be found in many Caribbean kitchens.
It is often used to flavor foods; it is most commonly added to cheese to give it a certain color, like the “cheddar cheese”, as well as to butter and other dishes such as fish and rice. It is often the secret that makes Caribbean food famous
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