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Exciting Flavor Trend: Aji Amarillo
Are you a fan of spicy foods? If so, you’ll be thrilled to hear about the rising popularity of Aji Amarillo, a pepper native to South America. According to Datassential, this fiery ingredient is projected to grow by a whopping 59% on menus in the next four years. In fact, flavor powerhouse McCormick & Co. has already crowned Aji Amarillo as the flavor of the year for 2025.
What sets Aji Amarillo apart is its unique blend of fruity, tropical notes combined with a moderate level of heat. McCormick has observed a surge in its usage across appetizers, drinks, and entrees, making it a versatile addition to any dish.
Spicy foods have been gaining traction among Gen Z and other consumers who crave bold flavors without compromising on health. This shift towards heat-packed meals has been a long-standing trend since the late 1980s, especially among younger demographics.
Consumer Preferences
A recent survey conducted by Kalsec revealed that nearly three-quarters of consumers believe that most foods taste better with a hint of heat. Specifically, 40% of snack enthusiasts prefer a spicy kick in their munchies. Additionally, NC Solutions found that 62% of consumers are more inclined to purchase spicy food or beverages if they are marketed as such.
Aji Amarillo, with its roots in Peru and South America, has become a sought-after ingredient due to its moderate heat levels ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 Scoville Heat Units. Its distinctive flavor profile, reminiscent of passion fruit and mango, adds a tropical twist to any dish.
Exploring Versatility
McCormick’s executive chef, Hadar Cohen Aviram, praises Aji Amarillo for its ability to enhance a wide range of dishes, from seafood and poultry to sauces and salsas. This pepper amplifies sweet and tangy flavors while adding depth to smoked or charred items.
To cater to the growing demand for spicy flavors, McCormick is gearing up to launch Aji Amarillo Seasoning, available online for a limited time starting in early February.
Future Flavor Trends
Aji Amarillo aligns perfectly with McCormick’s flavor predictions for 2025, including the rise of charred and smoked flavors, tropical vibes, and a focus on deliciously unexpected combinations.
Looking back, McCormick’s past flavor selections have proven to be spot-on. In 2024, Tamarind took the spotlight for its sweet and tangy essence, while previous years saw Vietnamese and Cajun flavors dominating the culinary scene.