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Ají Amarillo Paste

Capsicum baccatum
Also known asyellow chili paste, yellow hot pepper paste

A Peruvian yellow chili paste with fruity heat, used to build color, body, and warmth in sauces, stews, and marinades.

About

Ají amarillo paste is one of the defining chili ingredients of Peruvian cooking, made from bright yellow-orange ají amarillo peppers blended into a concentrated paste. It brings color, fruitiness, and rounded chile warmth without the sharper edge of many dried red chiles.

Flavor Profile

Fruity, bright, and moderately pungent with a warm chile character. It has a sunny pepper flavor that feels more rounded than harsh, with gentle sweetness beneath the heat.

FRUITY
BRIGHT
PUNGENT
SPICY

Texture Profile

SOFT
Culinary Use

Ají amarillo paste is used to build depth and color in sauces, marinades, and stews, where its fruit-forward heat can develop and integrate over time. It’s a defining element in many Peruvian dishes, lending both warmth and a vibrant golden hue to rice preparations and creamy chili-based sauces. Whether folded into a slow-simmered base or stirred into a finished dish, it brings a distinct balance of brightness and gentle heat that enhances without overwhelming.

Cooking Methods
Raw No heat applied. Sautéed Quick cooking in a small amount of fat. Simmered Gentle cooking in liquid just below the boiling point. Stewed Slow cooking small pieces fully submerged in liquid.

Prep Notes

Stir before using. Because it is concentrated, start with a small amount and build gradually; some brands are saltier or hotter than others.

Storage Notes

Store unopened cans or jars in a cool, dry pantry. Once opened, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate.

Freezer Friendly

Freeze in small spoonfuls or cubes for easy portioning; use directly in cooked dishes.

Shelf Life

Unopened:
Follow package date.
Opened:
3–5 days refrigerated.

Storage Locations
Pantry General shelf-stable storage (dry, room temp). Refrigerator Standard cold storage for perishables. Freezer Long-term sub-zero storage.
Storage Methods
Airtight Container The gold standard for dry goods (flour, sugar, cereal) and leftovers to prevent staleness and pests.

Where to Buy

Shop this item online from trusted retailers.

Nutrition Facts Servings per container:
More nutrition
Soluble Fiber not listed, Insoluble Fiber not listed, Sugar Alcohols not listed, Net Carbs not listed.
Nutrition information is estimated using USDA FoodData Central and other reference sources. Actual values may vary based on ingredient variety, preparation method, brand, ripeness, processing, and measurement accuracy.

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