Recados

Various marinade and a spice mixtures that are made into seasoned pastes to be used as a rub, a marinade or a seasoning for a variety of foods before they are grilled or roasted. In Spanish, Recados means "complements" or "messages" in reference to the use of spicy rubs or marinades to enhance or convey more of the flavor within various foods. By combining mixtures of spices, annatto seeds, chiles, onion, cilantro, peppercorns, and citrus juice (most often orange), a paste or sauce known as Achiote Recado is created for use to baste fish, meats, poultry, seafood, and vegetables before being grilled. Recados will also be added to soups and stews as well as foods that are being braised. In addition to a Recados marinade, a salsa will often be served as an accompaniment to provide an additional flavoring for the foods being prepared. Recados may also be referred to as Achiote Sauce.