Achiote paste ran out? We’ve all been there, trying to whip up something flavorful only to realize we’re missing that bright red ingredient.
No big deal, though—there are plenty of easy substitutes that can save the day. Some of these replacements bring similar color, some mimic the earthy flavor, and a few even do both.
We’ve tried experimenting ourselves—paprika here, turmeric there—until we found solid alternatives that work just as well.
You probably already have most of these options sitting in your spice rack or fridge. Plus, they’re simple to swap in without any complicated prep. Keep reading, and we’ll break it down for you ingredient by ingredient.
7 Easy Substitutes for Achiote Paste
Here are some of the best substitutes for achiote paste, whether you’re making marinades, sauces, or spice rubs.
1 – Paprika with Vinegar and Garlic
You’ll never believe how easy it is to hack achiote paste with paprika, vinegar, and garlic. We mix 2 teaspoons of paprika with 1 teaspoon of white vinegar and a minced garlic clove. This combo nails the earthy flavor and reddish color. It’s not flashy, but it works really well in marinades and rubs.
Use the same amount as the recipe calls for achiote paste. It adds a mild kick and a smoky vibe. Keep the balance simple, and it’ll blend right in. Bonus? You probably already have these in your pantry.
If paprika’s not your thing, check out our tips for finding the best paprika substitutes.
2 – Turmeric with Chili Powder
This one substitute will save your recipe and keep things super simple. Turmeric mixed with chili powder is a sneaky swap we use all the time. It has a warm, earthy flavor with just a little heat. The turmeric brings the bright yellow-orange color, while the chili powder adds depth.
We mix equal parts turmeric and chili powder—usually 1 teaspoon of each—for a 1-to-1 replacement of achiote paste. It works great for dry rubs or sauces needing a bold, spicy kick. The result isn’t as smoky as the original, but it does the trick. Keep in mind, the turmeric can stain, so measure carefully.
3 – Annatto Oil
Some recipes insist on authenticity, but we say make it work! Annatto oil is a surprising substitute that brings color and mild flavor. It’s made by heating annatto seeds in oil, which releases that vibrant red-orange hue.
We find it works best as a visual swap. The flavor is mild, nutty, and not overpowering. Use 1 tablespoon of annatto oil to replace 1 tablespoon of achiote paste.
It’s great for rice, soups, and marinades if you want less intensity. Bonus? It’s easy to make with seeds and neutral oil you probably already have.
Keep in mind, it won’t have the same smoky richness, but it adds color like a champ.
4 – Red Curry Paste
You’ll never believe how easy it is to swap in red curry paste for achiote paste. This one brings heat, bold flavor, and vibrant color. It’s made from a mix of red chilies, garlic, lemongrass, and spices, so it has a warmer, zestier vibe.
We use it when the recipe needs a punch of spice. Be careful, though—it’s spicier than achiote paste. Use 1 teaspoon of red curry paste for every tablespoon of achiote paste. Adjust as needed unless you’re ready for the heat.
It works especially well in soups, stews, and marinades. The texture is smooth and blends easily. While it skips the smoky flavor of achiote, the depth of spice more than makes up for it. For a complete guide on red curry paste substitutes, check out this article.
5 – Chipotle in Adobo Sauce
You’ll never believe how easy it is to swap chipotle in adobo sauce for achiote paste. It brings smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors all at once. The combo of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce delivers bold taste and deep color.
Use 1 tablespoon of chopped chipotle in adobo for every tablespoon of achiote paste. It’s a near-perfect flavor exchange, though it leans more on smoky heat than earthiness. Blend it well for smoother dishes like sauces or marinades.
We find it shines in meaty stews, grilled meats, and even tacos. It has a thick, saucy texture that’s easy to mix. While it’s spicier than achiote, you can control the amount to keep it balanced. It’s versatile, bold, and adds instant flavor depth.
6 – Tomato Paste with Smoked Paprika
It all started when I ran out of achiote paste and stared blankly at my pantry. Tomato paste with smoked paprika swooped in to save the day. The tomato paste gives a rich, tangy base, while smoked paprika adds earthy, smoky notes.
Use 1 tablespoon of tomato paste and a pinch of smoked paprika for every tablespoon of achiote paste. Adjust paprika based on how smoky you want it. The combo blends smoothly and works well in marinades, soups, or rubs.
It’s not as colorful, but it mimics the flavor pretty closely. The texture is thick and easy to stir into anything. If this substitute catches your attention, you might also find our guide to the best tomato paste substitutes useful.
7 – Harissa Paste
This one substitute will save your recipe when you’re out of achiote paste. Harissa paste brings heat and depth with its chili pepper base and mix of earthy spices. It has a slightly tangy, smoky flavor that layers seamlessly into dishes. Adjust the spice level by using less or mixing it with a bit of oil or water to mellow it out.
Use 1 tablespoon of harissa paste for every tablespoon of achiote paste. The texture is smooth and spreads easily into marinades and sauces. It adds a bold punch of flavor without overpowering the dish.
For spice lovers, this option hits the spot. Need alternatives for harissa? Check out this guide to harissa paste substitutes for more ideas.
Andrew Gray is a seasoned food writer and blogger with a wealth of experience in the restaurant and catering industries. With a passion for all things delicious, Andrew has honed his culinary expertise through his work as a personal chef and caterer.
His love for food led him to venture into food writing, where he has contributed to various online publications, sharing his knowledge and insights on the culinary world. As the proud owner of CooksCrafter.com, Andrew covers a wide range of topics, including recipes, restaurant reviews, product recommendations, and culinary tips.
Through his website, he aims to inspire and educate fellow food enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive resource for all things food-related.