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

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

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!

Table of Contents

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.

Dried Aji Panca Peppers

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.
Walmart Spice Aisle

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:

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

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
Spice Jars on Shelf

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.
Peruvian Seasoning Bottles

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.

McCormick Chili Powder Bottle

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!

Finished Peruvian Dish

Pro Tip: Always taste test your substitute before committing. Add gradually, especially with hotter peppers like chipotle or cayenne. You can always add more heat, but you can’t take it away!

Maya Gonzalez

Maya Gonzalez

A Latin American cuisine specialist who has spent a decade researching indigenous spice traditions from Mexico to Argentina. Maya's field research has taken her from remote Andean villages to the coastal communities of Brazil, documenting how pre-Columbian spice traditions merged with European, African, and Asian influences. Her expertise in chili varieties is unparalleled - she can identify over 60 types by appearance, aroma, and heat patterns. Maya excels at explaining the historical and cultural significance behind signature Latin American spice blends like recado rojo and epazote combinations. Her hands-on demonstrations show how traditional preparation methods like dry toasting and stone grinding enhance flavor profiles. Maya is particularly passionate about preserving endangered varieties of local Latin American spices and the traditional knowledge associated with their use.