Bacalaitos Fritos(Codfish Fritters) - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/2 lb. dried salt cod
3 c. flour
1/2 tsp. dried sage
1 tsp. baking powder
vegetable oil or corn oil for frying
6 whole black peppercorns
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1 c. and 2 Tbsp. water
3 Tbsp. achiote

Preparation

Achiote:
Achiote is annatto seeds cooked in vegetable oil.
In small skillet, heat 1/2 cup olive oil or vegetable oil.
When oil is very hot, add 1 tablespoon annatto seeds.
They can be obtained at most supermarkets in 8 ounce jars.
Turn heat to low and cook the seed, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes.
During cooking, the oil will turn a bright orange red color.
Remove from heat and let cool.
Using a small strainer, pour into a glass jar.
Cover and refrigerate.