So, how do you use crushed red pepper flakes to substitute for paprika in your recipes? You will need to add one-third of the amount to the same amount of paprika required in your recipe.

Smoked paprika, such as Spanish pimentón, is made from peppers that have been smoked over oak fires, giving it a distinct smoky flavor. This type of paprika can be sweet or hot, and its spiciness can vary depending on the specific variety. The smoky flavor adds depth to dishes and is often used in recipes like barbecue, paella, and marinades.

Hungarian Paprika is often found in casseroles, white cheeses, chili, egg dishes, marinades, rubs, salads, stews and it also goes well with most vegetables, pork and rice dishes. 

If you’re looking for paprika, you won’t have to search far. You’ll find the popular spice in your local supermarket, just look out for the label. If it just says paprika, that means it’s most likely the sweet variety. So if you’re after smoked, make sure it says it on the packaging label. You’ll also find smoked paprika as powder to use in your marinades and rubs. Speciality food stores and spice shops, as well as online, are a good place to get your hands on authentic Hungarian and Spanish paprika.

Heat Level: Medium

Capsicum Extract: Nature’s Potent Remedy

Now, what if you can’t find bell pepper powder at your local grocery store? It requires short work and it can be daunting at first, but you can make your own powder at home. To start, you have to dehydrate them first and then ground them to powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle. To use as a backup, simply double the amount as the recipe suggests.

Mortar and pestle: Get your inner chef vibes on and grab a mortar and pestle. Pop a handful of dried peppers in the mortar and use the pestle to crush and grind them into a fine powder.