Aji Verde Sauce Peruvian Inspired Dairy Free Minimalist Baker

Just 5 minutes, 1 blender, and 8 ingredients required for this versatile condiment perfect for bowls, salads, tacos, roasted potatoes, chicken, and so much more. Let us show you how it’s done!

What is Aji Verde?

Ají verde is a green hot sauce commonly served at Peruvian restaurants. It’s often made with cilantro, mayonnaise, lime juice, and spicy peppers, but everyone’s recipe is a bit different! Our search for the origin story of this delicious sauce came up a bit empty-handed. But similar sauces with cilantro and ají peppers are believed to have been made in Peru, Bolivia, and Colombia since as early as the 13th century. Peruvian chef Luis Sanchez shares his version in this video but says it’s not necessarily a Peruvian sauce since something like it isn’t made in Peru. The following is our inspired, mayo-free version similar to the herby, creamy, smoky sauce we’ve tried at Peruvian restaurants.

How to Make Vegan Aji Verde

This vegan version relies on cashews to mimic the creaminess usually provided by mayonnaise. We include lots of fresh cilantro for a vibrant green color and fresh flavor, green onion and garlic for kick, lime juice for brightness, and salt and maple syrup for balance. Then it’s on to the smoky star of this show: aji amarillo paste. While jalapeño does also work, it gives more fresh + spicy notes. Aji amarillo, on the other hand, gives this sauce a smoky, enchilada-esque aftertaste (major yum, just know it’s one of those things you’ll probably need to order online). When you blend it all up with water, a creamy, bright, versatile condiment is yours to enjoy! We hope you LOVE this sauce! It’s:CreamyVibrantSmokySpicyQuick & easy& Lick-from-the-blender good! It’s a versatile condiment delicious on everything from bowls to salads, tacos, roasted potatoes, chicken, and more!