Ají Colombiano
A vibrant and fresh Colombian hot sauce, perfect as a condiment for any meal. This recipe features the bright flavors of cilantro and scallions balanced with a tangy lime dressing.
🧂 Ingredients
- 3 Ají peppers (or jalapeños for a milder heat)(Remove seeds and membranes for less heat, leave them in for more spice. Wear gloves when handling hot peppers.)
- 1 cup Fresh cilantro(Packed loosely, stems and leaves are both usable.)
- 4 Scallions (green onions)(White and green parts, washed well.)
- 3 tbsp Fresh lime juice(About 1-2 limes.)
- 1/2 cup Water(Filtered water is recommended for best flavor.)
- 1/2 tsp Salt(Or to taste.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the aromatics: Wash the ají peppers (or jalapeños), cilantro, and scallions thoroughly. For the peppers, carefully remove the stems. If you prefer less heat, slice them open and scrape out the seeds and white membranes. Finely chop the peppers. Wash the cilantro and finely chop both leaves and tender stems. Trim the roots from the scallions and thinly slice the white and green parts.
⏱️ 10 minutes - 2
Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped ají peppers, chopped cilantro, and sliced scallions. Add the fresh lime juice and water. Season with salt.
⏱️ 3 minutes - 3
Mix and rest: Stir all the ingredients together until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt or lime juice. For the flavors to meld, let the ají sit at room temperature for at least 5 minutes before serving. This allows the ingredients to release their juices and flavors.
⏱️ 2 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ají Colombiano is an essential condiment in Colombian cuisine, often served with grilled meats, arepas, empanadas, and soups.
- ✓Adjust the heat level by controlling the amount of seeds and membranes you remove from the peppers.
- ✓For the freshest flavor, use all ingredients as fresh as possible. This sauce is best enjoyed within a few days of making.
- ✓If you don't have ají peppers, jalapeños are a good substitute, though the flavor profile will be slightly different.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add diced ripe mango for a sweet and tropical twist.
- For an extra spicy version, use hotter peppers like habaneros or Scotch bonnets, and leave in all seeds and membranes.
- Incorporate a clove of minced garlic for added pungency.