Recipes Using Aji Amarillo Paste: 5 Spicy & Easy Meals

If you’re looking to spice up your meals with a unique and flavorful twist, recipes using aji amarillo paste are the perfect place to start. This vibrant yellow chili paste, native to Peru, brings a delightful blend of spiciness, fruitiness, and smokiness to any dish.

Whether you’re a fan of bold chicken recipes, hearty vegetarian meals, or simply experimenting with new flavors in the kitchen, yellow chili spread can take your cooking to the next level.

Spicy Grilled Chicken with Aji Amarillo Paste

Recipe by Calven ArlithCourse: Dinner RecipesCuisine: PeruvianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

25

minutes

Calories per serving

350

kcal

Total time

40

minutes

A flavorful and spicy dish that combines tender chicken with the vibrant taste of aji amarillo paste for a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste

• 1 cup Greek yogurt or sour cream

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Directions

• In a bowl, whisk together golden pepper puree, Greek yogurt, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
• Place the chicken in a shallow dish and coat evenly with the marinade. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
• Preheat a grill or oven to medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until fully cooked through (about 6-8 minutes per side on the grill or 20-25 minutes in the oven).
• Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Notes

• For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. You can also adjust the amount of aji amarillo paste based on your spice preference.
• Serve with quinoa, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Understanding Aji Amarillo Paste Uses

Peruvian chili blend is a vibrant yellow chili paste that adds a unique flavor to dishes. It’s spicy but also has a fruity and slightly smoky taste. This versatile ingredient is widely used in Peruvian cuisine, but you can incorporate it into many other types of meals too.

What Is Aji Amarillo Paste?

Aji amarillo paste comes from the aji amarillo pepper, which is native to Peru. The peppers are roasted, peeled, and blended into a smooth paste. This process brings out their rich flavor profile.

Why Use Aji Amarillo Paste in Cooking?

If you’re looking to add depth and heat to your recipes, spicy yellow sauce is an excellent choice. Here’s why:

• Adds color to dishes
• Enhances flavors without overpowering them
• Works well with both meats and vegetables

Where Can You Buy Aji Amarillo Paste?

You can find fruity chili paste at Latin markets or online retailers. When shopping, look for high-quality brands that use fresh ingredients.

How Much Heat Does It Have?

On the Scoville scale, aji amarillo ranks moderately hot. If you enjoy mild spiciness, start with small amounts and adjust according to your preference.

Storage Tips for yellow hot spread

To keep your paste fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to several months if properly stored.

Recipes That Use Aji Amarillo Paste

Now let’s dive into some delicious recipes featuring this amazing chili paste. Whether you’re cooking chicken, vegetables, or preparing a hearty dinner, golden chili condiment will elevate your meal.

1. Start Simple with Aji Amarillo Chicken Recipe

This dish combines tender chicken with the bold flavors of aji amarillo paste. It’s perfect for beginners who want to experiment with new spices.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons amarillo chili paste
• 1 cup yogurt or sour cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Steps:

• Marinate the chicken in a mixture of aji amarillo paste, yogurt, and olive oil.
• Let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
• Grill or bake until fully cooked.

2. Try These Easy Recipes Using Chili Amarillo Paste

• Stir-Fried Vegetables: Toss bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots with yellow pepper paste for a colorful side dish.
• Spicy Tomato Sauce: Blend tomatoes, garlic, and aji amarillo paste for pasta night.
• Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Coat sweet potatoes in olive oil mixed with golden spice spread before roasting.

3. Experiment with Vegetarian Options

For those avoiding meat, here’s how to make vegetarian dishes using aji amarillo paste:

• Add it to lentil soups for extra kick.
• Mix it into hummus for a spicy twist.
• Apply as a tenderizer for tempeh or tofu.

4. Create Flavorful Dinners

Incorporate amarillo pepper puree into your evening meals for something special:

• Make a creamy aji amarillo sauce to serve over fish or shrimp.
• Prepare a hearty stew by combining beans, corn, and aji amarillo paste.

5. Don’t Forget Dessert!

Believe it or not, spicy yellow paste can even enhance desserts. Try adding a pinch to chocolate cakes or brownies for a surprising contrast of sweet and spicy.

Aji Amarillo Paste Chicken Breast

Chicken breast is lean and versatile, making it a great canvas for the bold flavors of Peruvian yellow spread. This recipe will show you how to create a dish that’s both healthy and packed with flavor.

Why Choose Chicken Breast?

Chicken breast is low in fat and high in protein, perfect for those watching their calorie intake. Adding warm yellow condiment gives it a flavorful boost without extra calories.

Key Ingredients for Success

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1/2 cup lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the chili gold paste, lime juice, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Arrange the chicken breasts in a low dish and drizzle the marinade on top.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight for better results).
4. Sear or bake the chicken until the internal heat reaches 165°F.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your amarillo chicken breast with:

• Quinoa salad
• Steamed broccoli
• A side of roasted potatoes

Tips for Juicy Chicken

To ensure your chicken stays moist:

• Don’t overcook it.
• Allow it to sit for a few minutes prior to serving.

Aji Amarillo Paste Chicken Thighs

If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful. Combined with yellow heat paste, they make for a mouthwatering meal.

Why Chicken Thighs Work Well

Chicken thighs have more fat than breasts, which keeps them tender during cooking. They also absorb marinades beautifully, making them ideal for this recipe.

What You’ll Need

• 6 bone-in chicken thighs
• 4 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

How to Prepare

1. Combine the amarillo spice mix, soy sauce, honey, and cumin in a mixing bowl.
2. Put the chicken thighs into a sealable bag and drizzle the marinade over.
3. Secure the bag and rub the marinade.
4. Chill for a minimum of 2 hours or up to 8 hours.
5. Cook on a grill or in the oven until fully cooked through.

Nutrition Highlights

This dish offers a balance of protein, healthy fats, and natural sugars from the honey. It’s a satisfying option for any dinner table.

Variations to Try

• Add diced onions and bell peppers to the marinade for extra texture.
• Serve with a cooling yogurt-based dipping sauce to balance the heat.

Easy Recipes Using Aji Amarillo Paste

When you’re short on time but still want a flavorful meal, golden hot paste is your secret weapon. These recipes are quick, simple, and full of taste.

1. Quick Weeknight Stir-Fry

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes and uses pantry staples.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, snap peas, carrots)
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Instructions:

• Warm sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the vegetables and cook until tender.
• Stir in the aji amarillo paste and soy sauce.
• Serve hot over rice or noodles.

2. Spicy Avocado Toast

Upgrade your breakfast with this easy and delicious twist.

What You Need:

• 2 ripe avocados
• 1 tablespoon aji amarillo paste
• 2 slices whole-grain bread
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cherry tomatoes, feta cheese

Steps:

• Mash the avocados in a bowl and mix in the chili yellow sauce.
• Grill the bread and smear the avocado mixture over it.
• Season with salt and pepper and add toppings if desired.

3. One-Pot Pasta

A comforting dish that requires minimal cleanup.

Key Ingredients:

• 1 pound pasta
• 4 cups water or chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• Fresh basil for garnish

How to Make:

• Heat the water or broth in a large pot until it boils.
• Cook the pasta following the package directions.
• Stir in the aji amarillo paste and cherry tomatoes during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
• Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Time-Saving Tips

• Prep ingredients ahead of time to speed up cooking.
• Use pre-cut vegetables to save even more time.
• Double the recipe for leftovers or meal prep.

Vegetarian Recipes

Vegetarians can enjoy the bold flavors of yellow chili seasoning too. Here are some plant-based ideas to inspire your next meal.

1. Vibrant Veggie Tacos

These tacos are packed with flavor and color.

Ingredients:

• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• Corn tortillas
• Toppings: shredded lettuce, salsa, guacamole

Directions:

• In a skillet, sauté the bell pepper until soft.
• Add the black beans and aji amarillo paste, stirring well.
• Warm the tortillas and fill them with the bean mixture.
• Top with your favorite toppings.

2. Creamy Aji Amarillo Soup

A comforting soup perfect for chilly days.

What You’ll Need:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• Heavy cream (optional)

Steps:

• Melt the butter in a pot and sauté the onion until translucent.
• Add the potatoes, aji amarillo paste, and broth.
• Simmer until the potatoes are tender.
• Blend the soup until smooth and stir in heavy cream if using.

3. Roasted Vegetable Medley

A side dish that’s both healthy and flavorful.

List of Veggies:

• Zucchini
• Eggplant
• Red onion
• Bell peppers

Preparation:

• Toss the veggies in olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
• Spread them on a baking sheet and roast at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.
• Drizzle with amarillo chili dip after roasting for added spice.

Nutritional Benefits

These vegetarian recipes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. They’re also great for those following a plant-based diet.

Dinner Recipes Using Aji Amarillo Paste

Spicy golden paste is a fantastic way to elevate your dinner game. These recipes are perfect for impressing family and friends while keeping things simple.

1. Aji Amarillo Shrimp Scampi

This dish combines the heat of aji amarillo with the richness of shrimp and pasta.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• 8 ounces linguine
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

• Cook the linguine according to package directions.
• In a big pan, cook the garlic until it releases its aroma.
• Add the shrimp and cook until pink.
• Stir in the aji amarillo paste and white wine, simmering for 5 minutes.
• Toss with cooked pasta and garnish with parsley.

2. Peruvian-Style Stuffed Peppers

A colorful and flavorful main course that’s easy to prepare.

What You Need:

• 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1 cup cooked rice
• Cheese for topping (optional)

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 375°F.
• Mix the black beans, aji amarillo paste, and rice in a bowl.
• Stuff each pepper half with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
• Top with cheese if desired and bake for 25-30 minutes.

3. Slow-Cooker Aji Beef Stew

Let your slow cooker do the work for this hearty stew.

How to Make:

• Combine all ingredients in the slow cooker.
• Prepare on low heat for 6-8 hours or high heat for 3-4 hours.
• Serve hot with crusty bread.

Tips for Hosting

• Pair these dishes with a crisp salad or side of quinoa.
• Use fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for extra flavor.
• Try various proteins or vegetables to match your preference.

Chicken Recipes Using Aji Amarillo Paste

Chicken pairs beautifully with Peruvian yellow paste, creating dishes that are both comforting and exciting. Here are some ideas to try at home.

1. Grilled Aji Chicken Kebabs

Perfect for outdoor gatherings or casual dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 3 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1 red onion, chopped
• Bell peppers, sliced
• Skewers

Directions:

• Marinate the chicken cubes in aji amarillo paste for at least 1 hour.
• Thread the chicken, onions, and peppers onto skewers.
• Grill over medium heat until the chicken is fully cooked.

2. Creamy Aji Chicken Enchiladas

A twist on traditional enchiladas with a spicy kick.

Key Components:

• 6 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded chicken
• 1 cup creamy aji sauce (aji amarillo paste mixed with sour cream)
• Shredded cheese

Assembly:

• Warm the tortillas and fill each with shredded chicken.
• Roll them up and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
• Pour the aji sauce over the top and sprinkle with cheese.
• Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

3. Aji Chicken Alfredo

A rich and creamy pasta dish with a hint of spice.

List of Ingredients:

• 8 ounces fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation:

• Cook the fettuccine as directed.
• Melt the butter in a pan and whisk in the cream and aji amarillo paste.
• Simmer until thickened, then stir in the Parmesan.
• Toss with cooked pasta and serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

• Offer a variety of toppings like jalapeños or fresh lime wedges.
• Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables for balance.
• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less fruity yellow spread.

Popular Peruvian Dishes

Peruvian cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, and yellow chili marinade plays a starring role in many traditional dishes. Here are some authentic options to bring a taste of Peru to your kitchen.

1. Causa Rellena

A classic Peruvian appetizer made with mashed potatoes and filled with chicken or tuna.

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• Mayonnaise (to taste)
• Cooked shredded chicken or tuna
• Hard-boiled eggs and olives for garnish

Steps:

• Boil the potatoes until tender and mash them.
• Mix in the aji amarillo paste and mayonnaise.
• Layer the mashed potatoes with the filling in a mold.
• Garnish with eggs and olives before serving.

2. Papa a la Huancaína

This creamy potato dish is a favorite at Peruvian tables.

What You Need:

• 6 medium potatoes
• 1 cup evaporated milk
• 2 tablespoons aji amarillo paste
• 1/2 cup grated cheese
• Lettuce leaves and boiled eggs for presentation

Directions:

• Boil the potatoes until cooked through and slice them.
• In a bowl, mix the evaporated milk, golden chili flavoring, and cheese to create the sauce.
• Arrange the potatoes on a bed of lettuce and drizzle with the sauce.
• Decorate with slices of boiled egg.

3. Lomo Saltado

A delicious stir-fry that combines beef, onions, and tomatoes.

How to Make:

• Sear the beef strips in a hot pan until browned.
• Add the red onion and tomatoes, cooking until softened.
• Stir in the amarillo pepper sauce and serve over rice.

Why Try These Dishes?

These recipes offer an authentic glimpse into Peruvian culture while showcasing the versatility of warm yellow paste. They’re also great conversation starters at dinner parties!

Tips for Cooking with Aji Amarillo Paste

Using chili yellow spread can seem intimidating at first, but these tips will help you master it in no time.

1. Start Small

If you’re new to spicy foods, begin with a teaspoon of paste and adjust as needed. You can always increase the amount, but it’s more difficult to reduce it.

2. Balance the Heat

Pair yellow pepper sauce with cooling ingredients like yogurt, sour cream, or avocado to balance its spiciness.

3. Experiment with Different Dishes

Don’t limit yourself to savory meals. Golden chili dressing works surprisingly well in desserts and drinks too.

4. Store It Properly

Keep your paste refrigerated in an airtight container to maintain freshness. It should last several months if stored correctly.

5. Substitute When Necessary

If you can’t find amarillo chili seasoning, try substituting with other chili pastes like jalapeño or serrano. Keep in mind the flavor might differ slightly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overusing the paste can overpower other flavors in your dish.
• Not letting the paste cook long enough can leave a raw taste.
• Forgetting to adjust seasoning after adding the paste.

Conclusion

Aji amarillo paste is more than just a spice—it’s a gateway to discovering vibrant and exciting flavors in your cooking. Whether you’re making quick weeknight meals, experimenting with vegetarian options, or diving into authentic Peruvian dishes, this versatile ingredient adds depth and excitement to every recipe.

By following the tips and recipes shared here, you’ll be well on your way to mastering its use and impressing everyone at the dinner table.

Share Your Experience

Have you tried any of these recipes? Or do you have a favorite dish that features aji amarillo paste? We’d love to hear about it! Sharing your experiences helps others learn and inspires creativity in the kitchen.