Aji Limo Powder

Aji Limo peppers, or Limo chile, is a medium to hot chile pepper from Peru. It commonly has a Scoville Heat Rating of 30,000-50,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). Aji Limo peppers have a very fruity citrus flavor and work well in Central and South American cuisines. The taste is very similar to Scotch Bonnet peppers but with less heat. It is one of the Peruvian trinity family of peppers along with Aji Amarillo and Rocoto peppers. In Peru, the pepper is commonly made into a versatile paste and then the paste is worked into any number of dishes. You can use this powder to make a paste, simply by adding water. 

The pepper is commonly used to make salsa, ceviche, street tacos, chili, and pairs well with chicken and fish. 

This is pure Aji Limo pepper powder, there are no other ingredients. Our powder tests on the high end at just under 50,000 SHU. Also available as Aji Limo Flakes.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Aji Limo Peppers

What is Aji Limo?

Aji Limo is a Peruvian chili pepper known for its citrus-like, floral, and fruity flavor with significant heat. These peppers vary in color from yellow to red and are about 2 to 3 inches long. They range from 30,000 to 50,000 on the Scoville scale, offering a moderate to high level of spiciness. Commonly used in ceviche, salsas, and other Peruvian dishes, Aji Limo adds both heat and distinctive taste. Although less famous than Aji Amarillo, it's still a vital component of Peru's diverse culinary heritage.

What recipes are Aji Limo peppers commonly used in?

Aji Limo peppers are integral in Peruvian cuisine, notably in ceviche for their citrusy heat. They're used in salsas like the spicy Aji sauce, often served with various dishes. In Lomo Saltado, they add spice to the stir-fry, while in Carapulcra, they enhance the stew's flavor. Anticuchos might include Aji Limo in marinades for a spicy touch. Beyond traditional uses, they appear in sauces, including variations of Huancaína sauce, and in dishes like Tiradito. Their versatility allows them to spice up both classic and contemporary Peruvian recipes.

What is Aji Limo paste?

Aji Limo paste is a concentrated, flavorful condiment made from Aji Limo peppers, known for their citrusy and floral taste with significant heat. It's used in Peruvian cuisine to add both spice and flavor. Commonly, it's incorporated into salsas, marinades, and sauces. You might find it in ceviche, as a seasoning for meats, or mixed into soups and stews. The paste provides a quick way to infuse dishes with the unique taste of Aji Limo without needing fresh peppers. It's easily added to recipes for culinary depth and heat.

How can I create an Aji Limo paste?

To make Aji Limo paste from powder, mix 2 tablespoons with water or vinegar, blending to a paste consistency, and optionally cook with seasonings. For flakes, rehydrate 2 tablespoons in hot water for 10-15 minutes, then blend. Adjust the thickness with more liquid or reduce by cooking. Store in an airtight container in the fridge, adding oil on top for preservation. This paste can substitute fresh Aji Limo in recipes. Remember to use within weeks for freshness.

How can I make an Aji Limo sauce?

To make Aji Limo sauce, start by blending 2-3 Aji Limo peppers (seeds removed for less heat), garlic, onion, cilantro, and lime juice until smooth. Optionally, include mayonnaise or huacatay paste for creaminess or authenticity. Adjust the sauce's consistency with water or chicken stock if needed. Season with salt to taste, and blend again if you've added anything for texture. For more heat, leave seeds in or add more peppers. Serve fresh or refrigerate in an airtight container. This sauce is perfect for ceviche, as a condiment, or to enhance various dishes.

How hot are Aji Limo peppers?

Aji Limo peppers are considered medium to hot on the Scoville scale, typically ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU). This level of heat places them in the same ballpark as cayenne or tabasco peppers but with their own distinctive flavor profile.

What is something interesting about Aji Limo peppers?

Aji Limo peppers are intriguing due to their varied colors, from yellow to purple, and their citrus-like flavor, which sometimes leads to confusion with other peppers. They've been cultivated in Peru since ancient times, showcasing their historical culinary importance. Their distinctive taste, with a citrus tang, is especially valued in ceviche. Aji Limo peppers are mistakenly called "Aji Limon" in the U.S. due to this citrus flavor. Their unique combination of attributes makes them a fascinating component of Peruvian cuisine.

Learn More
Want to learn more about Aji Limo Peppers? Check out our Aji Limo Pepper Guide on our blog.