In the realm of culinary delights, Aji Amarillo paste from Peru offers a vibrant, spicy, and fruity flavor that can elevate the humble chicken to something truly extraordinary. This paste, made from Aji Amarillo chili peppers, is known for its unique taste, combining heat with sweetness and a hint of acidity, making it a versatile ingredient in various dishes.
Understanding Aji Amarillo Paste
Aji Amarillo, or yellow chili, is a cornerstone of Peruvian cuisine. Unlike other chili pastes, Aji Amarillo has a distinctly fruity flavor, with undertones of tropical fruits like pineapple or mango. Here's what you need to know about this paste:
- Flavor Profile: It's moderately spicy with a Scoville rating of around 30,000-50,000 SHU, yet it's balanced by sweetness and a mild, fragrant aroma.
- Uses: It's incredibly versatile, adding depth to soups, sauces, marinades, and stir-fries.
- Preparation: The fresh Aji Amarillo peppers are boiled, peeled, then blended into a paste. This paste can be found in specialty stores or online, making it accessible for anyone interested in exploring Peruvian flavors.
Chicken Recipes With Aji Amarillo Paste
Aji de Gallina
This dish is perhaps the most iconic way to use Aji Amarillo paste with chicken:
- Prepare the Chicken: Boil chicken pieces until cooked, then shred the meat and reserve the broth.
- Sauté Base: In a pan, cook onions until translucent, then add garlic and Aji Amarillo paste.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the shredded chicken, bread soaked in milk, walnuts, and cheese. Thicken with the reserved broth, and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Serve: Over boiled potatoes, rice, and with a sprinkle of parsley or garnish with olives and boiled eggs.
🌶️ Note: Adjust the amount of Aji Amarillo paste to your heat preference; it can be quite potent.
Aji Amarillo Grilled Chicken
Grill your chicken with an Aji Amarillo twist:
- Marinade: Mix Aji Amarillo paste with olive oil, garlic, lime juice, cumin, and salt to create a marinade.
- Marinate: Coat chicken pieces thoroughly and let them marinate for at least two hours or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Grill: Grill the chicken, ensuring it’s charred on the outside and juicy on the inside.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with sides like avocado salad or Peruvian-style potatoes.
| Ingredient | Quantity for Marinade |
|---|---|
| Aji Amarillo Paste | 2-3 tablespoons |
| Olive Oil | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Lime Juice | Juice of 1 lime |
| Cumin | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Chicken Skewers with Aji Amarillo and Pineapple
Infuse tropical flavors into your chicken skewers:
- Marinade: Mix Aji Amarillo paste with pineapple juice, honey, and soy sauce for a unique marinade.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread chicken cubes, pineapple chunks, and bell peppers on skewers.
- Grill: Grill until the chicken is cooked and has a nice char.
- Glaze: Brush with additional marinade or a simple Aji Amarillo glaze during grilling for extra flavor.
Summing Up
Incorporating Aji Amarillo paste into your chicken recipes can open a world of flavors, introducing your palate to the rich, colorful, and dynamic tastes of Peru. From traditional dishes like Aji de Gallina to innovative creations like grilled or skewered chicken, this paste provides a unique and unforgettable flavor profile. Whether you’re a culinary adventurer or simply seeking to spice up your meal, Aji Amarillo paste is an ingredient that should not be overlooked.
What other dishes can I use Aji Amarillo paste in?
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Aji Amarillo paste is not just for chicken; it’s also perfect for:
- Seafood dishes like ceviche or fish stews
- Vegetable dishes, sauces for tacos or enchiladas
- As a spice component in rubs or seasoning blends for various meats
- Incorporated into dressings or dips for added zing
Where can I buy Aji Amarillo paste?
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You can find Aji Amarillo paste in:
- Specialty Latino grocery stores or markets
- Online retailers specializing in international foods
- Some larger supermarkets with a well-stocked international section
How spicy is Aji Amarillo?
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Aji Amarillo peppers have a Scoville rating of approximately 30,000 to 50,000 SHU, making them moderately spicy. The paste itself has a balanced heat with a significant amount of flavor.
Can Aji Amarillo paste be used for cooking other meats?
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Yes, Aji Amarillo paste is excellent for:
- Braising beef or pork
- Marinating lamb chops
- As an ingredient in sauces for various meats, enhancing the overall flavor profile
Is Aji Amarillo paste gluten-free?
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Yes, traditional Aji Amarillo paste is gluten-free, as it consists of solely Aji Amarillo peppers. However, always check the ingredients list, as some commercial brands might include stabilizers or additives that could contain gluten.
