Aji Verde

Ingredients

• 1 cups cilantro – coarsely chopped (leaves and tender stems)
• 2 pieces scallions – chopped
• 2 cloves garlic – chopped
• 2 tbsp aji amarillo paste
• 1 tbsp huacatay paste
• 0.5 cups mayonnaise
• 1.5 tbsp lime juice – freshly squeezed
• 2 pieces soda crackers – broken into pieces
• 0.75 tsp kosher salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper – freshly ground
• 1 tbsp water – cold

Instructions

1. Rinse and shake dry the cilantro. Trim the scallions and peel the garlic. Break the soda crackers into small pieces and juice the lime.
2. Add cilantro, scallions, garlic, aji amarillo paste, huacatay paste, mayonnaise, lime juice, soda crackers, kosher salt, and black pepper to a blender. Blend on high until completely smooth and vividly green, 30–60 seconds, scraping down the sides as needed.
3. For a thinner, saucier consistency, blend in the cold water until just loosened. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and lime juice if needed.
4. Cover and refrigerate 10 minutes to let the flavors settle. Serve with pollo a la brasa, fries, or grilled meats. Refrigerate up to 3 days.