What is an Aji Amarillo and What's a Good Substitute?

Understanding Aji Amarillo

Aji amarillo (Capsicum baccatum) is an essential ingredient in Peruvian cuisine, where it is used in a variety of traditional dishes. It is characterized by its distinct fruity flavor, often described as a mix of tropical fruit and mango, with a subtle heat that adds depth to recipes without overpowering the dish.

Scoville Rating

The Scoville scale measures the heat or spiciness of chili peppers. Aji amarillo typically falls within the range of 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). To put it into perspective, this places it slightly milder than cayenne pepper but hotter than jalapenos.

Possible Substitutes for Aji Amarillo

While aji amarillo is unique in its flavor profile, there are some substitutes you can use if you cannot find it easily. Here are a 5 alternatives that can help you achieve similar flavors and heat levels:

1. Yellow Wax Pepper: Yellow wax peppers are relatively easy to find in many grocery stores. They have a similar color and mild heat compared to aji amarillo. However, they lack the distinct fruity flavor. To mimic the flavor profile, consider adding a small amount of mango or pineapple juice while cooking.

2. Habanero Pepper: If you're looking for a spicier alternative, habanero peppers can be used as a substitute. With a Scoville rating of 100,000 to 350,000 SHU, they bring the heat. However, keep in mind that habaneros have a different flavor profile, more citrusy and floral compared to the fruity notes of aji amarillo.

3. Orange or Red Bell Pepper: If you're after the vibrant color and mild sweetness of aji amarillo rather than its heat, consider using orange or red bell peppers. While they don't have the same level of heat, they can still provide a similar visual appeal and add a touch of sweetness to your dish.

4. Guajillo Pepper: Guajillo peppers are commonly used in Mexican cuisine and can be a good substitute for aji amarillo. They have a mild to moderate heat level and bring a complex flavor profile with hints of berry and green tea.

5. Cayenne Pepper: If you want to add some heat without altering the flavor profile too much, cayenne pepper is another option. It has a similar level of spiciness as aji amarillo but lacks its unique fruity taste.

Remember, when substituting peppers in recipes, it's important to consider both the heat level and flavor profile you're trying to achieve. Experiment with different alternatives until you find one that suits your taste preferences best.