Aji Panca Substitute SOS: What To Buy At Walmart When You're Out Of This Peruvian Pepper

Running low on aji panca and need a quick substitute from the closest big box store? Don't panic — we’ve got you covered. Whether you're cooking up a traditional lomo saltado, a spicy ceviche marinade, or a smoky Peruvian stew, there are some solid aji panca replacements at Walmart that can save your dish without sacrificing flavor.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the best options available at Walmart, complete with flavor comparisons, heat levels, and usage tips. Plus, we've included a handy buying guide so you can choose the perfect swap based on your recipe needs!

What Is Aji Panca?
Why Would You Need a Substitute?
Top Aji Panca Replacements at Walmart
Flavor & Heat Comparison Table
When to Use Each Substitute
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Substitute
FAQ: Common Questions About Substitutes
Conclusion

What Is Aji Panca?

If you're not already familiar, aji panca is a bright red chili pepper native to Peru. It's known for its fruity, mildly smoky flavor profile and moderate heat level (between 1,000–1,500 SHU). Often used in paste or dried form, it’s a staple in Peruvian cuisine and adds depth to sauces, stews, and marinades.

However, it’s not always easy to find fresh or dried aji panca at local grocery stores — especially if you’re in a hurry. That’s where substitutes come into play.

Why Would You Need a Substitute?

There are several reasons you might be looking for an aji panca alternative:

You're out of stock and can’t get to a specialty market.
Your local store doesn’t carry it regularly.
You want to experiment with different flavor profiles.
You need a milder or spicier version for dietary or personal preference reasons.

Top Aji Panca Replacements at Walmart

Luckily, Walmart carries several peppers and spice blends that can mimic the flavor or heat of aji panca. Here are our top picks:

Guajillo Chili Powder – Best overall substitute
Ancho Chili Powder – Sweet and mild alternative
Paprika (Smoked or Sweet) – Great for adding color and subtle flavor
Chipotle in Adobo – For a smokier, hotter twist
Cayenne Pepper – For extra heat with less flavor complexity
Peruvian Seasoning Blends – Ready-made options for convenience

Flavor & Heat Comparison Table

Substitute	Heat Level (SHU)	Flavor Profile	Best Used In
Guajillo Chili Powder	2,500–5,000	Berries, tea-like, slight tang	Red sauces, moles, salsas
Ancho Chili Powder	1,000–2,000	Sweet, raisin-like, earthy	Stews, enchiladas, soups
Smoked Paprika	100–1,000	Smoky, sweet, rich	Meat rubs, rice dishes, grilled veggies
Chipotle in Adobo	2,500–8,000	Smoky, spicy, tangy	Marinades, BBQ sauces, tacos
Cayenne Pepper	30,000–50,000	Hot, sharp, pungent	Spicy sauces, stir-fries, hot drinks
Peruvian Adobo Seasoning	Mild	Garlic, citrus, herbs	Peruvian-style meats, seafood, soups

When to Use Each Substitute

Here's a breakdown of when each substitute shines:

Guajillo: If you want to replicate the deep red hue and berry-like notes of aji panca, go with guajillo. It’s slightly hotter but offers a similar richness. Ideal for salsas, sauces, and mole pastes.
Ancho: Mild and sweet, anchos offer a gentler alternative. They work well in recipes where you don’t want the heat to overpower the flavor — like slow-cooked stews or braised meats.
Smoked Paprika: Want that smoky note without much heat? Smoked paprika mimics the charred essence of dried aji panca. Use it as a garnish or in dry rubs.
Chipotle in Adobo: Looking for more fire and smoke? Chipotles add both heat and a bold, tangy kick. Use sparingly in place of aji panca for a modern twist.
Cayenne: If you only care about the heat and not the nuanced flavor, cayenne will do the job. But beware — it lacks the fruity undertones and can easily overpower your dish.
Peruvian Seasoning Blends: Brands like Goya and Badia sell pre-mixed Peruvian adobo seasonings. These are perfect for beginners or when you're short on time.

Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Substitute

Choosing the right aji panca replacement comes down to what you’re trying to preserve most: flavor, heat, color, or texture. Here’s how to decide based on your goals:

1. Flavor First

If your recipe hinges on the complex taste of aji panca — think fruity, floral, and slightly smoky — your best bets are guajillo or ancho chili powders. Both are versatile and widely available at Walmart.

2. Heat Level Matters

If you want to match the mild warmth of aji panca (around 1,500 SHU), avoid anything above 5,000 SHU. Stick with ancho, paprika, or Peruvian seasoning blends.

3. Color Match

Aji panca gives dishes a vibrant red-orange tint. If color is key (like in sauces or marinades), use guajillo or chipotle in adobo to keep that visual appeal.

4. Texture & Application

Dried and ground peppers are great for blending into sauces or mixing with oil. Meanwhile, chipotle in adobo brings moisture and tanginess, which works well in meat marinades and wet rubs.

5. Budget-Friendly Options

Most of these substitutes are wallet-friendly and last long in your pantry. For example, McCormick chili powders and paprikas are affordable and high-quality.

FAQ: Common Questions About Substitutes

Can I use regular paprika instead of aji panca?

Yes, especially if you’re after color and a bit of sweetness. However, regular paprika won’t bring the same depth of flavor. Opt for smoked paprika for a richer taste.

Is chipotle hotter than aji panca?

Definitely! Chipotle peppers pack significantly more heat (up to 8,000 SHU) compared to aji panca’s 1,500 SHU. Use them sparingly.

Where can I find aji panca at Walmart?

While aji panca isn’t commonly stocked in every Walmart, some locations carry it in the international aisle or online via Walmart.com. Try searching “Peruvian chili” or “aji panca paste” on the app.

Can I use aji amarillo instead of aji panca?

Absolutely! Aji amarillo is another Peruvian pepper, but it’s yellow and has a brighter, more citrus-forward flavor. It’s spicier than aji panca, though, so adjust quantities accordingly.

Are all the substitutes gluten-free?

Most single-ingredient spices are naturally gluten-free, but check labels carefully. Some seasoning blends may include additives like wheat or gluten-containing thickeners.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just diving into Peruvian flavors, running out of aji panca doesn’t have to derail your meal plans. With the right substitute from Walmart, you can still achieve that rich, slightly smoky, and fruity depth that defines many Latin American dishes.

From guajillo chili powder to smoked paprika, there's something for every palate and purpose. And thanks to Walmart’s wide selection of spices, finding a substitute is easier than ever — no special order required.

So next time you're staring into the fridge wondering how to tweak your recipe, grab one of these tried-and-tested aji panca alternatives and keep those culinary dreams alive!