Achiote (pronounced AH-TCHI-O-TAY) is derived from the exotic plant called annatto or roucou. The nice thing about cooking with achiote is that it creates a delicious taste people most likely won't recognize unless they are used to mayan cuisine... So this way of preparing chicken will create that special exotic taste that will surprise and impress your guests.
Preparation:
In the food processor blend the achiote with the garlic, 1/4 onion, 2 tablespoons of vinegar,
bitter orange juice, salt and oregano to taste; liquefy all these.
Place chicken in a bowl and pour the liquefied mixture, allowing it to marinate
in the refrigerator, in a closed container for 60 minutes.
Preheat oven to 300 º F. Place chicken in an oven-going pan, in the sauce, and simmer 35 to 45 min (depending on the size of chicken).
Meanwhile, boil the red onion for 5 minutes, drain, dice and dress with vinegar, salt, pepper and
serrano peppers if desired.
Accompany the chicken with the seasoned Onions and corn tortillas, can also be served with salad, refried beans or Mexican-style rice.
Enjoy your meal!