Pescado en Achiote (Mexican Fish in Annatto Sauce)

Pescado en Achiote (Mexican Fish in Annatto Sauce)
  • PREP TIME
    20 mins
  • COOK TIME
    30 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    50 mins
  • SERVING
    6 People
  • VIEWS
    13

Embark on a culinary journey to the Yucatan Peninsula with this vibrant Pescado en Achiote. Tender white fish and succulent shrimp are infused with the earthy notes of achiote, bright citrus, and aromatic spices, then baked to perfection. Served with a fiery habanero salsa, this dish is a celebration of Mexican flavors.

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    11 g
  • Cholesterol
    210 mg
  • Fiber
    1 g
  • Protein
    37 g
  • Saturated Fat
    11 g
  • Sodium
    757 mg
  • Sugar
    7 g
  • Fat
    24 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). (5 minutes)

02

Step

In a blender, combine 3/4 cup water, 1/4 onion, achiote paste, juice of 1 orange, juice of 2 limes, white vinegar, garlic, 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano, salt, and black pepper. Blend until completely smooth. (5 minutes)

03

Step

Season both sides of the fish fillets with salt and pepper. Brush the tops of the fillets with melted butter. Place the fillets in a baking dish; top with the shrimp and cover with the achiote sauce. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. (10 minutes)

04

Step

Bake in the preheated oven until the fish flakes easily with a fork, approximately 30 minutes. (30 minutes)

05

Step

While the fish is baking, prepare the habanero salsa: In a glass bowl, combine the sliced red onion and habaneros. Add 1 cup water, juice of 1/2 orange, and juice of 1 lime; stir well. Season with 1 teaspoon salt, peppercorns, and 1 teaspoon Mexican oregano. Allow to sit for at least 15 minutes to mellow the onions. (15 minutes)

06

Step

Once the fish is cooked, serve it and the shrimp with the achiote sauce. Top with the habanero salsa and enjoy immediately. (5 minutes)

For a milder salsa, remove the seeds and membranes from the habanero chiles before slicing. Be extremely cautious when handling habaneros; wear gloves if possible and avoid touching your face.
The fish can also be grilled instead of baked. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, then grill over medium heat until cooked through.
Serve with warm tortillas, rice, and a side of black beans for a complete and satisfying meal.
Feel free to adjust the amount of habanero chiles to your spice preference. A little goes a long way!
The habanero salsa can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will meld and deepen over time.

Ada Carter

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.8/ 5 ( 4 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (7)
  • Deven Purdy

    I love the combination of flavors in this dish. It's perfect for a summer meal.

  • Sigmund Franey

    Easy to follow instructions and the end result was delicious.

  • Joel Kris

    I made this for my family and they all loved it. Will definitely make it again.

  • Estel Murray

    This recipe is amazing! The fish was so tender and flavorful.

  • Lyric Spinka

    Next time I might try using a different type of white fish, maybe grouper.

  • Maegan Lowe

    Be careful with the habaneros! They are very hot.

  • Romaine Heller

    The habanero sauce is definitely spicy, but it adds such a nice kick!

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