Annatto, saffron’s subtle stand-in, and 3 bold ways to cook it
- Posted on March 20, 2026
- By South China Morning Post
- 6 Views
Annatto, saffron’s subtle stand-in, and 3 bold ways to cook it

The vivid annatto, or ‘lipstick tree’, seed adds colour – and a minty note – to rice, steak and lamb.