In summary, paprika is made from dried and ground Capsicum annuum peppers, resulting in a versatile spice with a range of flavors and heat levels. Whether it's sweet, hot, or smoked, paprika adds depth, color, and flavor to a wide variety of dishes, making it a beloved ingredient in many culinary traditions.
Heat Level: Medium
These suppliers are the unsung heroes of the spice trade, operating behind the scenes to source, process, and distribute crushed red hot peppers to markets far and wide. Their work begins at the agricultural level, where they establish relationships with farmers who grow a variety of hot peppers, such as chilies, jalapeños, and cayenne peppers. These suppliers often provide expertise on cultivation techniques, helping to ensure robust crops and high-quality peppers.
Red pepper flakes are hotter than paprika, so we recommend substituting ⅓ teaspoon of red pepper flakes for every 1 teaspoon of paprika. Add more to taste if you want more heat.
The manufacturing process begins with the harvest, where fresh chili peppers are picked at their peak ripeness. The peppers are then meticulously sorted and cleaned to remove any impurities. After this, they undergo a drying process, which can be through natural sun-drying or using specialized dehydrators. Once dry, the peppers are crushed into flakes, either by machine or manually, depending on the manufacturer's preference and the desired texture.If you want to add a nice spicy kick without all the overpowering heat, chili powder is a suitable sweet paprika substitute. Despite that, you can’t use chili powder in a 1:1 substitution because of its noticeable savory flavor that comes from a mix of other spices such as onion powder, cumin, garlic, and more. In general, it has an earthy, savory, and slightly spicy taste. But it will do if you’re in a bind or in the middle of garnishing your deviled eggs and curries.
The journey of dried chile pods from the fields to international kitchens begins in the heart of chili-growing regions like Mexico, New Mexico, India, China, and Spain. Here, farmers cultivate diverse varieties, such as Ancho, Chipotle, Habanero, and Poblano, each with its distinctive heat level and aroma. After harvest, the chilies are sun-dried, preserving their flavor and enhancing their color, making them ideal for shipping and storage.