Paprika
Categories: Spices, Chiles & Chili Powders
Paprika is considered a chile powder, but there is no specific paprika chile. Instead, it is made from a variety of red chiles that differ depending on the region where the paprika is produced. Paprika tends to have a light smell, and the colour and flavour depend on a variety of factors, including the types of chiles used, the amount of seeds and veins included, and the way the chiles are dried. Paprika is often used for its vibrant red colour, though many varieties also have a strong, distinctive flavour.
The best paprikas are from Spain and Hungary. Most Spanish paprika is dried over a fire and has a smoky flavour. Hungarian paprikas range from mild, which are sweet and have a vibrant bright red colour, to hotter varieties which include more seeds and are a lighter red-orange colour.
We sell several varieties of Spanish and Hungarian paprika, as well as a Californian paprika. Paprikas from the United States have a mild flavour and very vibrant red colour, so they are used mainly for adding colour to food. Paprika from elsewhere in the world tends to imitate either Hungarian or Spanish varieties.
Be careful to never overheat paprika, as it is delicate and will burn and become bitter.
