WHAT IS HOT PAPRIKA?

Even before being domesticated, six to eight thousand years ago, chilis had found a way to spread over more land and proliferate more widely by using birds as their seed carriers. Not only do birds fly and can spread the seeds over long distances but they also swallow the fruit whole, which keeps the seeds intact and allows them to germinate once they are “dropped”.

Need to know how to use chili paste with garlic? Your gorgeous red chili garlic sauce pairs perfectly with Vietnamese cuisine, especially my Vietnamese pizza. It is also a perfect addition to Asian dishes such as my chili oil ramen or stir fry dishes. You can make a spicy dipping sauce for hot pot!

So the question of what is a good paprika substitute comes down to what dish you're preparing and how much paprika that dish calls for. 

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. 

If you’re making a recipe that calls for paprika but don’t have any left then don’t panic! There are some other things you can use in its place. Which you choose will depend on the dish you’re cooking so let’s explore some of the best paprika substitutes that you may have in your kitchen cupboards.

Consider combining tomato juice and hot sauce if you want a spicier and hotter blend. Simply follow the same ratios as above to make the blend and replace paprika in your recipes.

It should be noted that spicy food and spicy hot food are two different flavors. If you love spicy hot food that makes your taste buds tingle and take notice, you are probably a fan of hot sauces. 

Additionally, capsaicin oleoresin is used in the production of pepper spray, a non-lethal self-defense tool that can temporarily incapacitate an attacker by causing intense irritation to the eyes, skin, and respiratory system.

Overall, paprika is a versatile spice that can be used in many dishes to add color and flavor. The different types of paprika offer a range of taste profiles, from sweet and fruity to smoky and spicy.