Ají Picante: Colombian Hot Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Ají Picante is a vibrant Colombian hot sauce bursting with fresh flavors from peppers, tomatoes, and cilantro. It’s a simple, tangy condiment that adds a spicy kick to any meal, perfect for those who love a bit of heat and zest.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Distilled White Vinegar
- 1/4 cup Water
- 4 Ají Dulce Peppers
- 1/2 Red Onion
- 2 Tomatoes
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro
- 1 Lime
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the distilled white vinegar and water, stirring gently to mix.
- Step 2: Add the ají dulce peppers, red onion, tomatoes, and fresh cilantro to the vinegar mixture. Squeeze in the juice of one lime and season with salt to taste. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Step 3: Let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and deepen.
Tips & Variations
- For a spicier sauce, substitute ají dulce peppers with jalapeños or serranos.
- If fresh ají dulce peppers aren’t available, use mild bell peppers and add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
- Chill the sauce before serving for a refreshing, crisp taste.
Storage
Store the ají picante in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Stir well before each use. The flavors may intensify and meld more over time. Reheat gently if desired, though it is typically served cold or at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute distilled white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a slightly fruitier taste, but distilled vinegar keeps the authentic tangy flavor of the sauce.
Is ají dulce very spicy?
No, ají dulce peppers are mild and flavorful with little heat, making this sauce more tangy and fresh than overly spicy. For more heat, add hotter peppers as preferred.
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Ají Picante: Colombian Hot Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 1 cup 1x
Description
Ají Picante is a traditional Colombian hot sauce that combines the tangy acidity of vinegar and lime with the fresh flavors of ají dulce peppers, red onion, tomato, and cilantro. This vibrant, zesty sauce is perfect for adding a spicy kick to a variety of dishes, offering a balanced heat with fresh, bright ingredients.
Ingredients
Liquid Base
- 1/2 cup Distilled White Vinegar
- 1/4 cup Water
Produce
- 4 Ají Dulce Peppers
- 1/2 Red Onion
- 2 Tomato
- 1/4 cup Fresh Cilantro
- 1 Lime
Seasoning
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the liquid mixture: In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar with 1/4 cup of water. Stir well to blend the liquids together as the base of the sauce.
- Add the fresh ingredients: Chop the 4 ají dulce peppers, 1/2 red onion, and 2 tomatoes into small pieces. Chop 1/4 cup of fresh cilantro as well. Add all these ingredients into the vinegar and water mixture, stirring gently to combine.
- Season and finish: Squeeze the juice of 1 lime into the bowl, then add salt to taste. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Let flavors meld: Cover the bowl and let the sauce sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature before serving. This resting time allows the flavors to develop and meld together for a richer taste.
Notes
- Ají dulce peppers are mildly spicy and add flavor without overpowering heat—substitute with mild chili peppers if unavailable.
- Adjust salt to taste depending on your preference.
- This sauce pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, rice, and empanadas.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- For a smoother consistency, pulse the mixture briefly in a blender before letting it sit.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Condiment
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Colombian
Keywords: Colombian hot sauce, Ají Picante recipe, ají dulce, spicy sauce, fresh hot sauce, Latin American condiments
