Where to Buy Ají Amarillo in Los Angeles: 2026 Guide

Ají amarillo is the soul of Peruvian food. Without it, there's no ají de gallina, no causa, no pollo a la brasa with green sauce. Finding it in LA isn't hard — you just need to know where. This guide covers physical stores (best in the Valley, South Bay, Hollywood) and online options.

Ají amarillo paste (the most-used form)

Most Peruvian recipes call for the paste (in a jar), not fresh. Common brands: Inca's Food, Doña Isabel, Goya Peru.

Physical stores with reliable stock

• Vallarta Supermarket (multiple in SFV and South Bay) — Latin section with 7.5oz jars, $3.99-$5.99.
• Cardenas Markets — good for Inca's Food. Similar prices.
• Northgate González — solid stock of Peruvian brands. South Bay and East LA.
• Peruvian stores in the Valley — Puro Sabor Van Nuys sells imported goods; ask at the counter.

Online (cheaper in bulk)

• Amazon — Inca's Food 7.5oz, 2-pack. Usually cheaper per unit than in-store.
• orderperuvian.com — Peru's Taste in Northridge ships across the LA area. Direct imports.
• Andean market at the Consulate — the Fiestas Patrias festival (July 28-29) has imported product stalls at good prices.

Fresh ají amarillo (harder)

Finding the fresh version in LA is harder. Three options:

• Farmers markets — several LA markets have Latin vendors who occasionally bring fresh ají. Hollywood Farmers Market on Sundays is the best bet.
• Small Peruvian shops in the South Bay — ask directly. El Rocoto in Gardena sometimes has contacts.
• Grow it — seeds available on Amazon or eBay. Grows well in Southern California. Takes 3-4 months for first fruit.

Dried / powdered ají amarillo

Good for long-term storage. Brands Sibarita, Sol y Mar. Sold at Cardenas, Northgate, and online. Rehydrate with hot water for 15 minutes before using.

Price comparison (Jun 2026)

For recipes using ají amarillo, check our blog.