Manda Ruby wrote:
> If anyone living in NorCal, and know whether I can buy Annatto
> (Achiote) paste.
>
> I want to use it as coloring (in tandoori chicken; see Vah-Chef's
> video on youtube) or flavoring in light frying of chicken.
>
>
> No, I do not want to use red color or yellow color.
>
> I am very familiar with saffron. We used it in Biriyani (similar to
> Bengal Style) - hired a chef who cook for us as only chef can cook
> such a dish. Search for a video on youtube if you are interseted in.
> Do not be mistaken as Biriyani of other Indian state.
>
> The other day, I put a little saffron in tandoori marinade; I got that
> saffron when buying Tilda Basmati rice in another state.
>
> What is the cheapest brand of saffron - I am referring to the real
> saffron, not the colorant?



Which do you want, saffron or achiote?

You should be able to buy annatto seeds at any Mexican or Asian grocery
store. (the Asian stores here are mixed Vietnamese, Korean, Chinese,
and Japanese, so I'm not sure which one uses annatto (I don't think it's
the Japanese)) Simmer the seeds in peanut oil to make your own achiote
and it keeps forever in a glass jar the freezer.

Bob