



This spice has been thoroughly incorporated into Hungarian culture. There are eight paprika flavor and appearance profiles in Hungary; they range from különleges, sweet and mild, and a brilliant red, to erős, which is spicy and a dusky orange-brown color that can be as hot as the hottest jalapeno. Paprika marketed in the US as Hungarian Sweet Paprika is usually classified as édesnemes paprika; fiery red, but with a mellow flavor and just a touch of pungency.



In addition to its culinary uses, crushed red pepper also offers a range of health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Crushed red pepper is also believed to aid digestion and boost metabolism, making it a popular choice for those looking to enhance their overall health.
La Vera Smoked Sweet Paprika is also known as dulce. Much like its spicier cousin, this sweet paprika is made by drying freshly-harvested, ripe, red peppers in low-lying, adobe smoke houses. They are placed of smoking grills fired with slow-burning oak planks. After smoking, the paprika is milled by electrically powered stone wheels which must turn very slowly, as heat from friction adversely affects the signature color and flavor.
Switching with this spice is pretty straightforward. Just use an equal amount of chipotle powder for every smoked paprika the recipe calls for.
All capsicum varieties are descended from wild ancestors in North America, in particular Central Mexico, where they have been cultivated for centuries. The peppers were subsequently introduced to the Old World, when peppers were brought to Spain in the 16th century. The seasoning is used to add flavor and color to many types of dishes in diverse cuisines.