In addition to these two main types, there are also smoked paprika varieties, such as Spanish pimentón de la Vera, which are made from peppers that have been smoked over oak fires. This process gives the paprika a distinct smoky flavor that adds depth to dishes like barbecue, chili, and marinades.

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Get some high-grade cayenne powder here.

Chili peppers offer a range of potential health benefits due to their nutritional content and the presence of capsaicin, the compound responsible for their heat. Some of the potential benefits of chili peppers include:

Paprika is divided into three categories—sweet, hot, and smoked—and each one is made from different types of peppers.

Hot sauce typically consists of chili peppers, vinegar, and salt, sometimes accompanied by other spices. Chili sauce, meanwhile, often has a more complex recipe, which can include ingredients like tomatoes, garlic, sugar, and various spices.

Check the Heat

Both crushed red pepper and paprika have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the world of culinary creativity. While crushed red pepper brings intense heat and pepperiness, paprika offers a spectrum of flavors, from sweet to smoky to hot. By understanding the distinctions between these spices and learning how to use them effectively, you can elevate your dishes and craft a culinary experience that delights the senses and awakens the palate.

The Regular Paprika

So, as you likely know, cayenne powder is particularly hot and spicy. As a result, it is primarily used to add heat, not flavor, to food. A little goes a long way with cayenne powder, so most recipes will call for relatively small quantities (usually 1/8-1/4 teaspoon for a whole meal).

The extra ingredients used in sriracha dilutes the sauce which makes it slightly less spicy than the chili-based sambal oelek. Sriracha tends to be sweeter with a hint of garlic whereas, all you can taste in sambal oelek is the rich chili and vinegar flavor.