Because paprika and cayenne come from peppers, both can technically trace their roots back to the Americas. However, the two spices don’t come from the same kind of pepper—nor are they prepared the same way.

In summary, paprika is made from dried and ground Capsicum annuum peppers, resulting in a versatile spice with a range of flavors and heat levels. Whether it's sweet, hot, or smoked, paprika adds depth, color, and flavor to a wide variety of dishes, making it a beloved ingredient in many culinary traditions.

If you want to speed up the drying time, use an oven instead. However, this is my least favorite method: ovens aren’t designed for low-temperature drying, which can lead to uneven drying and affect the flavor. Watch the peppers closely for the best outcome.

Sometimes you may find yourself missing a key spice in the middle of cooking. Don’t worry—there are several clever substitutions for common red pepper spices that can save your dish without sacrificing flavor. Remember, though, that when substituting spices, it’s good to start with a conservative amount and adjust to taste.

Convenience and Value

Where Does Cayenne Come From?

Why We Love It: With a combination of four of the hottest hot peppers around in addition to a hefty dose of pure pepper extract, this is our hottest hot sauce to date. Not for the faint of heart, this hardcore chili-head favorite doesn’t just deliver a mind-blowingly hot experience, but it also provides an enjoyable flavor experience (once you regain your sense of taste, that is). Try it in your chili or challenge your friends to try a drop straight-up; either way, we guarantee you’ll enjoy yourself. 

Common chili powder ingredients:

Who would have thought that when you combine tomato sauce with chili powder, you end up with one of the best substitutes for paprika? The tomato sauce will provide the required color and a bit of umami-ness, while the chili powder will add the kick of spice and heat.

Heat Level: Hot

Heat Level: Hot