Always make sure you check the label of the chili powder you intend to use to know if it will work for your recipe. I also advise reducing the amount of any of the ingredients included in the spice blend to avoid serving overly seasoned dishes.

Best for stews, salsas, soups, chilies, and sauces.

Sweet paprika spice, derived from ground sweet peppers, is prized for its vibrant red color and mild, sweet flavor. It adds a touch of brightness to dishes without overwhelming them with heat, making it versatile for both seasoning and garnishing. Commonly used in European and Mediterranean cuisines, sweet paprika enhances dishes like roasted vegetables, grilled meats, and seafood. Its gentle heat and earthy undertones complement a wide range of flavors, making it a staple in kitchens where a balance of color and flavor is desired.

Paprika can be used in any dish to add a bright vibrant color, like in this Grilled Eggplant Recipe or Creamy Garlic Dressing. Smoked paprika is used to add a smoky aroma that’s desired in chorizo, sausages, or in these Lamb Kabobs.

Finish off with 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, and you’ve got a delicious jar of homemade chiu chow oil! (Feel free to re-season with up to a teaspoon of additional salt if needed. You may want to wait until it’s cooled first to get a more accurate read on the flavor.)