People Apparently Still Don’t Know What Paprika Is Made From

Paprika, along with its more distinguished cousin, smoked paprika, finds its way into a vast array of culinary delights—from the exotic paella to even paprika-infused tea. One would assume that by now, most individuals would possess a basic understanding of its origins. But, recent online discoveries suggest otherwise.

In a post shared by the Australian food brand Nutraorganics, they enlightened their audience on a surprising fact: paprika doesn’t stem from a unique or exotic plant but originates from everyday peppers that have undergone the drying process. When this revelation first hit Twitter back in January, users were left in awe, suggesting a general misconception about what paprika might have been made of.

The posts clarified that paprika is crafted from ground, sweet, and mild peppers. Historically, spicier peppers were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers from the Americas. Over time, European cultivators developed progressively milder varieties, resulting in a sweeter flavor profile.

Although the peppers used for paprika bear a resemblance to bell peppers in sweetness and mild heat, they are notably longer and slimmer than the standard bell peppers sold in the U.S. Some hotter variations of paprika incorporate chili peppers alongside sweeter strains, though in Hungary—where paprika reigns as a national staple—the sweet variety is predominantly used.

In summary, paprika doesn’t spring from a distinct tree of its own. The peppers that yield paprika are the same unremarkable ones you may already know, simply dried and ground into a vibrant spice.

Paprika is commonly used in a variety of dishes, including:

1. Goulash: A traditional Hungarian stew made with meat, vegetables, and a generous amount of paprika for flavor and color.
2. Chicken Paprikash: A Hungarian dish featuring chicken cooked in a creamy paprika sauce, often served with dumplings or noodles.
3. Deviled Eggs: Paprika is often sprinkled on top of deviled eggs for added flavor and a pop of color.
4. Shakshuka: A Middle Eastern dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce, where paprika can enhance the flavor.
5. Spanish Rice: Paprika is used in many Spanish rice dishes, giving them a rich color and flavor.
6. Potato Salad: Many recipes for potato salad include paprika as a seasoning to add depth and a hint of smokiness.

These dishes showcase paprika’s versatility and its ability to enhance the flavors of various ingredients!

Paprika pairs well with several other spices, including:

1. Cumin: Adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the sweetness of paprika.
2. Garlic Powder: Enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing a savory note to dishes.
3. Onion Powder: Similar to garlic, it adds depth and sweetness.
4. Oregano: A great herb that adds a Mediterranean touch to dishes with paprika.
5. Chili Powder: For those who like a bit of heat, combining chili powder with paprika can create a nice balance of flavors.
6. Black Pepper: Adds a bit of heat and sharpness that works well with the mild sweetness of paprika.

These spices can be mixed and matched depending on the dish you’re preparing!