Spice Up Your Life: 5 Irresistible Aji Amarillo Paste Recipes You Need to Try!

If you're a spice enthusiast or just looking to add more flavor to your meals, this blog is for you! Today, we're diving into the vibrant world of Peruvian cuisine, focusing on one of its most iconic ingredients: Aji Amarillo paste. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a weekend cook, mastering this golden-hued chili paste will open up a whole new dimension in your kitchen.

Table of Contents

• What is Aji Amarillo?
• Why Use Aji Amarillo Paste?
• Top 5 Aji Amarillo Paste Recipes
• Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Aji Amarillo Products
• Pro Tips for Using Aji Amarillo Paste
• Final Thoughts

What is Aji Amarillo?

The Aji Amarillo pepper (Capsicum baccatum) is a bright yellow-orange chili native to Peru. It's often referred to as the “soul of Peruvian cuisine” due to its widespread use in traditional dishes like ceviche, lomo saltado, and causa. Known for its fruity heat and floral aroma, Aji Amarillo offers a medium-level spiciness with a Scoville rating between 30,000 to 50,000 SHU — hot enough to excite but not overwhelm.

Fresh Aji Amarillo can be hard to find outside of South America, which is why many chefs and home cooks rely on frozen or bottled Aji Amarillo paste. This paste is made by blending the peppers with oil, vinegar, or water, making it a versatile ingredient that’s easy to store and ready to use.

Why Use Aji Amarillo Paste?

Here are some key reasons why you should consider using Aji Amarillo paste in your cooking:

• Convenience: No need to roast, peel, or puree fresh chilies every time.
• Consistency: The paste delivers uniform flavor and heat levels.
• Versatility: Works great in marinades, sauces, dips, soups, and even cocktails.
• Flavor: Adds a rich, tropical undertone with hints of mango and citrus.

Top 5 Aji Amarillo Paste Recipes to Elevate Your Cooking

1. Classic Aji Amarillo Mayonnaise

This simple yet bold condiment is perfect for sandwiches, burgers, fries, and dipping seafood.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1–2 teaspoons Aji Amarillo paste
• Juice of ½ lime
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth.
2. Taste and adjust the spice level by adding more Aji Amarillo paste if desired.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to let flavors meld together.

2. Aji Amarillo Ceviche Marinade

Ceviche wouldn’t be the same without the zesty kick of Aji Amarillo. This marinade brings out the best in fresh fish and seafood.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup Aji Amarillo paste
• 1 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb white fish (like sea bass or tilapia), cubed

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine Aji Amarillo paste, lime juice, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
2. Add fish cubes and toss well to coat.
3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or until the fish is opaque and firm).
4. Serve cold with sweet potato slices and corn.

3. Creamy Aji Amarillo Mac & Cheese

Yes, you read that right — this spicy twist on comfort food adds depth and warmth without overpowering the cheese base.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz elbow macaroni
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tsp Aji Amarillo paste
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions and drain.
2. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat, then stir in flour to make a roux.
3. Gradually whisk in milk and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Aji Amarillo paste and cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
5. Toss with cooked pasta and season to taste.
6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes for a golden crust (optional).

4. Grilled Chicken Skewers with Aji Amarillo Glaze

Elevate your next barbecue with this tangy, slightly smoky glaze that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp Aji Amarillo paste
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Skewer sticks (soaked in water)

Instructions:

1. Mix all marinade ingredients in a bowl.
2. Add chicken cubes and marinate for at least 2 hours (overnight is better).
3. Thread chicken onto skewers and grill over medium-high heat until charred and fully cooked.
4. Brush with extra glaze during the last few minutes of grilling.
5. Serve with rice and grilled veggies.

5. Aji Amarillo Cocktail Sauce

Whether you're hosting a seafood boil or a casual appetizer night, this punchy cocktail sauce steals the show.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup ketchup
• 1 tbsp Aji Amarillo paste
• 1 tbsp horseradish
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• ½ tsp Worcestershire sauce
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
2. Taste and adjust the spice or acidity to your liking.
3. Chill before serving with shrimp, oysters, or crab cakes.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Aji Amarillo Products

If you’re unable to find fresh Aji Amarillo peppers, don't worry — there are plenty of high-quality bottled pastes available online and in specialty stores. Here's a breakdown of what to look for when shopping for Aji Amarillo products:

Product Name	Features	Advantages	Use Cases	Best For	Occasions
Inca Foods Aji Amarillo Paste	Pure chili blend with no additives	Rich flavor, natural color, shelf-stable	Marinades, ceviche, sauces	Home cooks and foodies	Weeknight dinners, themed parties
El Rey del Maíz Frozen Aji Amarillo Puree	Freeze-dried to preserve freshness	No preservatives, intense flavor	Stews, soups, rice dishes	Chefs and gourmet cooks	Dinner parties, special occasions
La Costeña Bottled Aji Amarillo	Traditional brand from Peru	Authentic taste, trusted quality	Causa, papa a la huancaína	Traditionalists and travelers	Comfort meals, cultural gatherings
Peru Market Organic Aji Amarillo Paste	Organic and gluten-free	Health-conscious choice, mild spice	Salad dressings, vegan bowls	Vegetarian and health-focused cooks	Brunches, healthy meal prep
Amigo Tropical Aji Amarillo Blend	Blended with herbs and spices	Ready-to-use, complex flavor	Stir-fries, pasta, tacos	Busy professionals	Quick weeknight meals

Pro Tips for Using Aji Amarillo Paste

Want to get the most out of your Aji Amarillo paste? Here are some handy tricks to keep in mind:

• Start Small: A little goes a long way — especially if you’re not used to the heat level.
• Balance With Acid: Brighten up the earthy spice with a splash of lime, lemon, or vinegar.
• Don’t Overheat: Cook gently to avoid burning the paste, which can lead to bitterness.
• Store Smartly: Keep refrigerated after opening and use within a few weeks, or freeze in portions.
• Experiment: Don’t stick to traditional uses — try it in vinaigrettes, hummus, or even brownies for a unique kick.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're deepening your knowledge of global spices or simply spicing up your weekly menu, Aji Amarillo paste is a must-have ingredient. From creamy sauces to bold marinades, the versatility and flavor profile of this Peruvian staple are truly unmatched.

So go ahead — give these recipes a try, stock up on Aji Amarillo paste, and embrace the fire and flair of South American cuisine. Your taste buds (and dinner guests!) will thank you.

Stay spicy, friends!