This is the first part of our blog series about capsaicin. Stay tuned to learn about how capsaicin works, why we love it so much, and how to help with a bad chilli burn.

When Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas in 1492, he was the first European to have an encounter with any sort of chile pepper plant. He brought the ancestor of all paprika back with him to Europe and specifically to his patrons, the Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. The king and queen did not care for their fiery heat and sent them to a monastery to be studied. These monks sent them further along across Spain and Portugal. From there, chile peppers made their way across Europe. Some peppers stayed spicy, like those in Calabria, but other European cultures experimented with their breeding and created the sweet and flavorful varieties of peppers that give us paprika today. 

There are a number of herbs and spices that will help add even more flavour to your dishes alongside paprika. Rosemary is a popular herb in Mediterranean cuisine and adds a sweet, intense flavour to grilled chicken and lamb, potatoes and roast vegetables. Oregano also pairs well with paprika. Full of flavour, it brings citrus and anise flavours to your dishes. Try it alongside paprika when you’re cooking a whole chicken, making crispy potatoes or marinade for your barbeque. And if you’re looking for a complementary spice, try cumin. It brings a spicy, warm flavour and earthy colour to a number of dishes, including meats, vegetables, potatoes, soups and stews. Paprika also goes well with caraway, garlic, ginger and thyme. 

Introduction

Paprika is a spice made from dried and ground red peppers. It is commonly used in various cuisines around the world for its rich flavor and vibrant color. One of the most popular varieties of paprika is natural paprika, which is made from peppers that are grown and harvested without the use of artificial pesticides or fertilizers. Natural paprika suppliers play a crucial role in providing high-quality paprika to consumers who value natural and organic ingredients in their food.

The Regular Paprika

Can paprika be used as a substitute for bell pepper?

Crushed Red Pepper:

With two specific varieties of chili powders included in my list, I can't miss including one that you surely have in your pantry: regular chili powder. But I want to emphasize that you must only use it as a substitute for Hungarian paprika when you have no other options.

What Is Chili Powder (Er, Chile Powder..?)

Botanical Classification