Flavor Trends: Aji Amarillo
Aji Amarillo is Quickly Finding its Place on Menus
In April of 2019 we posted a New Hot Sauces article which discussed the rising interest of specific chilies on menus nationwide. The trend for unique chile callouts was (and still is) gaining speed and finding a firm footing on menus.Even before that our sister site had done a write up on how aji amarillo can act as a unique flavor driver with its medium heat and bright, citrusy notes. Also, its versatility makes it a great addition to anything from BBQ and hot sauces, to aioli, salad dressings, or even pizza sauces.Well it seems we may have been peering through the looking glass on that one, because aji amarillo is quickly finding a home on select menus.
Where is Aji Amarillo on the Menu Adoption Cycle?
According to Datassential, aji amarillo currently sits at the "Inception" stage of the menu adoption cycle. This means that, as of now, it’s a premium ingredient that can be found on mostly fine dining menus and at ethnic independents.And while this ingredient may be just starting to peak into adoption, it's important to note that interest in aji has grown over 135% over the last 4 years. And with only 4% of the population having tried it, it's a huge opportunity to create a unique menu item to gain new customers and leverage the trend of specific chile callouts.
Who's currently Using It?
Florida based ceviche chain Suviche is well-known for their love of the aji amarillo chile. It can be found in their homemade huancaina sauce, or on full display in their aji amarillo ceviche, tiradito, and the Aji de Gallina.Killa Wasi, in Austin, TX, has put together a deliciously unique menu with a focus on aji chiles. The pepper is found in a spicy mayonnaise sauce, in cheesy queso dip, on braised Chichi pork, and atop their Texas style Lomo Saltado brisket.
How Can I Use It?
This yellow/orange chile is as versatile as it is delicious. As we stated before, it makes a great addition to BBQ sauces, salad dressings, pizzas, and creamy dips or aioli.
Additionally, aji amarillo makes an excellent glaze or sauce for chicken wings, a relish for sandwiches or hot dogs, a marinade for fish, and a bright addition to ceviche. Or, go simple and blend aji amarillo sauce with mayonnaise and a hint of lime for an excellent dipping sauce for French fries.
It's a Good Time to be Yellow
Because aji amarillo is coming soon, and it's best to be ready for it. So, start discussing where you can fit this spicy little gem on your menu to ensure you're ready to lead the trend with your own brightly colored, flavorful sauce.Cheers!
