Authentic Aji Amarillo Recipe – Traditional Peruvian Green Dipping Sauce

Discover the zesty flavors of Peru with this vibrant, creamy Aji Amarillo sauce. Perfect for dipping fries, drizzling over grilled chicken, or adding a kick to your favorite dishes!

Unlock the secret to Peru’s most beloved condiment with our irresistible Aji Verde recipe. This fiery green sauce, popularized by New York’s Pio Pio restaurant chain, has captivated taste buds and sparked curiosity among food enthusiasts. Now, you can recreate this culinary sensation in your own kitchen!

Our journey to perfect this recipe was filled with trials, tastings, and a touch of culinary detective work. After countless attempts and a bit of reverse engineering, we’ve crafted a version that captures the essence of the original Pio Pio sauce. While it may not be an exact replica, it’s a delicious homage that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Lima.

The magic of this sauce lies in its unique blend of ingredients. Jalapeños provide a fresh kick, while aji amarillo paste brings authentic Peruvian flavor. A touch of cheese adds the perfect salty note, creating a harmonious balance that will keep you coming back for more.

Don’t limit this versatile sauce to just chicken and fries. Try it as a zesty topping for burgers, a flavorful spread for sandwiches, or a tangy drizzle over your morning eggs. The possibilities are endless!

Aji Verde (Spicy Peruvian Green Sauce)

Ingredients

• 2 fresh jalapeños, including seeds and ribs, roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon aji amarillo paste (see notes)
• 1 cup freshly picked cilantro leaves and small stems
• 2 tablespoons grated cotija cheese or Parmesan cheese
• 1 medium clove garlic, minced (about 1 teaspoon)
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon white vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon juice from 1 lime
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Directions

1. In a blender, combine jalapeños, aji amarillo, cilantro, cotija, garlic, oil, vinegar, and lime juice. Blend on high speed until a smooth paste forms. Add mayonnaise and blend until the mixture is homogenous. Transfer to a bowl and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve alongside crispy French fries or juicy grilled chicken for an authentic Peruvian experience.

Notes

Aji amarillo paste is a hot yellow pepper paste from Peru. Look for it in Latin specialty stores or order online. If unavailable, the recipe will still be delicious without it, though less authentic.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This sauce keeps well in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. The flavors may even intensify over time!