Aji

Aji Amarillo

Aji Amarillo means yellow chile in Peru and refers to the vibrant color of this chile when allowed to fully ripen. Aji is the commonly used word for chile in the South American region.

Other Names: In dried form this chile may be referred to as cuzqueno (from Cuzco, Peru).

Uses: The fresh and vibrantly colored pods are wonderfully fruity when used fresh and are a perfect ingredient for ceviches and salsas. The pods are also dried and ground to make a beautiful and uniquely flavored powder. Aji chiles are considered a staple ingredient in Peruvian cuisine.

Heat: Very Hot. Aji chiles compete with or exceed the heat of Habanero-type chiles both being members of the chinense species and containing some of the highest levels of capsaicin.