Best 3 Aji Criollo Or Ecuadorian Hot Sauce Recipes

**Ají Criollo: A Taste of Ecuadorian Heat**

Ají Criollo, also known as Ecuadorian hot sauce, is a vibrant and flavorful condiment that adds a spicy kick to various dishes. This fiery sauce is made from a blend of ají peppers, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and spices. It is a staple in Ecuadorian cuisine, used to enhance the flavors of everything from soups and stews to grilled meats and seafood. This article presents a collection of Ají Criollo recipes, ranging from classic to modern variations, that will cater to different tastes and preferences. Explore the diverse world of Ecuadorian heat and elevate your culinary creations with the bold and zesty flavors of Ají Criollo.

Here are our top 3 tried and tested recipes!

AJí CRIOLLO (SPICY ECUADORIAN HOT SAUCE)

Ají Criollo (Spicy Ecuadorian Hot Sauce) image

Ají Criollo, is a spicy condiment made out of chilies, cilantro and lime juice and found in just about every household and restaurant in Ecuador. Traditionally, a jar or bowl of Ají Criollo is put on the table and folks add it to any of their meals to bring as much heat as they like to their plate. This is generally made fresh...

Provided by Vicki Butts (lazyme)

Categories Salsas

Time 10m

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1/2 bunch cilantro
4 aji peppers (or serrano or jalapeno)
2 green onions, coarsely chopped (or equal amount of white onion)
1 lime, juiced
1 Tbsp vegetable oil
1 tsp white vinegar
3 clove garlic
1/2 c water
kosher salt, to taste

Steps:

1. Combine all of the ingredients (except onion and salt) to the bowl of a food processor and pulse until the ingredients are chopped and the consistency of a loose salsa is achieved.
2. Add the chopped onions and salt to taste.
3. Use as a condiment for ceviches, meats and stews.

AJI (ECUADOREAN HOT SAUCE)

Aji (Ecuadorean Hot Sauce) image

There many ways to make Aji in Ecuador, but one thing is certain, there is always aji on the table. This is a recipe I learned while I was there. Cayenne or similar small red peppers are decent substitutes for the South American Aji peppers from which this delicious (hot) condiment gets its name.

Provided by Chef Kate

Categories Sauces

Time 12m

Yield 1 cup

Number Of Ingredients 10

Ingredients

4 hot red peppers (aji peppers or similar small hot peppers)
2 garlic cloves
1/2 cup water
2 tomatoes, peeled and chopped
3 tablespoons scallions, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh coriander, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh flat leaf parsley, chopped
1 lemon, juice of
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon salt

Steps:

Combine the water, peppers and garlic in the blender and blend well.
Strain the liquid into a bowl and discard any solids.
Add the balance of the ingredients and mix well.
Store in the refrigerator.

AJI CRIOLLO

Aji Criollo image

A hot sauce from Ecuador, perfect for fish or meat dishes, taken from laylita.com and posted for ZWT7

Provided by WicklewoodWench

Categories Low Protein

Time 5m

Yield 4 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 7

Ingredients

4 hot peppers
1/2 bunch cilantro (stems and leaves)
1/2 cup water
3 garlic cloves
1/2 limes, juice of or lemon
3 tablespoons finely chopped white onions (scallions can also be used)
salt

Steps:

Combine the hot peppers, cilantro, water, garlic cloves and lime juice in the blender and blend well.
Add the chopped white onions and salt to taste.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 26.6, Fat 0.1, Sodium 6.6, Carbohydrate 6.3, Fiber 1, Sugar 2.8, Protein 1.2

### Tips for Making Aji Criollo (Ecuadorian Hot Sauce): - **Fresh ingredients:** Use the freshest ingredients possible, especially the tomatoes and peppers. This will ensure the best flavor and quality in your hot sauce. - **Roast the peppers:** Roasting the peppers adds a smoky and caramelized flavor to the hot sauce. You can roast the peppers over an open flame, on a grill, or in the oven. - **Use a variety of peppers:** For a more complex flavor, use a variety of peppers, such as red habaneros, scotch bonnet peppers, and cayenne peppers. - **Adjust the heat:** The amount of heat in your hot sauce is up to you. If you want a milder sauce, use fewer peppers or remove the seeds. If you want a hotter sauce, use more peppers and leave the seeds in. - **Add other ingredients for flavor:** In addition to peppers and tomatoes, you can add other ingredients to your hot sauce for flavor, such as onions, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice. - **Be patient:** Making hot sauce takes time. You need to allow the sauce to ferment for at least a few days, and preferably for a few weeks or even months. This will allow the flavors to develop and mellow. - **Store the hot sauce properly:** Once the hot sauce is ready, store it in a cool, dark place. This will help to preserve the flavor and quality of the sauce. ### Conclusion: Aji Criollo is a delicious and versatile hot sauce that can be used to add flavor to a variety of dishes. It is easy to make and can be customized to your own taste preferences. With a little time and effort, you can make a delicious hot sauce that you and your family will love. So, what are you waiting for? Get started today!