[Damaris]

Unfortunately, I have no clue what "Bija" is, but I am interesting in knowing once you or anyone on the site finds out.

[Aunt Clara]

The name in English I don't know, but I used it a couple of days back to prepare "Pescado con coco". La receta la encontrarán en un par de semanas.

Bija

[Damaris]

From what I can see in the picture it seems to me like "Achiote"
Achiote is the Spanish word in which I know this ingredient. It's what gives a red/yellowish food coloring. The english word is "Annatto". I hope this was of some help.

[Aunt Clara]

Thanks Damaris.

[Damaris]

No problem - Glad I could help.

[Aunt Ilana]

Achiote, or Annatto
Bija
Bixaceae Bixa orellana L.

Tropical shrub or small tree. The fruits are heart-shaped, brown or reddish brown at maturity, and are covered with short stiff hairs. When fully mature, the fruits split open exposing the numerous seeds. Although it does not produce an edible fruit, the achiote is widely grown for the orange-red pulp that covers the seeds. The achiote dye, which is prepared by stirring the seeds in water, is used to color butter, cheese, rice and other foods. In the Philippine Islands the seeds are ground and used as a condiment.

(from The Web site of the Center for New Crops & Plant Products, at Purdue University http://www.hort.purdue.edu/newcrop)

[stan]

I started this quest (thanks Aunties Ilana & Clara) in search of the Las Galeras recipe for pescado con coco. I was told that bija was an essential ingredient. Unfortunately, I found the Brugal before the pencil & the recipe was never committed to paper. I have found a few recipes, even one "en estilla Samana" but no bija.

I look forward to seeing your version. Stan