

Other fabrics like bamboo, Tencel, or other semi-synthetics are temperature-regulating, meaning they maintain a naturally cooler temperature and adjust with your body temperature. These are fantastic for keeping cool when it’s hot — especially because they are often moisture-wicking, too.
When Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas in 1492, he was the first European to have an encounter with any sort of chile pepper plant. He brought the ancestor of all paprika back with him to Europe and specifically to his patrons, the Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. The king and queen did not care for their fiery heat and sent them to a monastery to be studied. These monks sent them further along across Spain and Portugal. From there, chile peppers made their way across Europe. Some peppers stayed spicy, like those in Calabria, but other European cultures experimented with their breeding and created the sweet and flavorful varieties of peppers that give us paprika today.
Another important factor to consider is the smoking process itself. High quality smoked paprika is made by slowly smoking the peppers over a wood fire, which imparts a deep, smoky flavor to the powder. A reputable exporter will use traditional smoking methods to ensure that the paprika retains its authentic flavor and aroma.
Hot sauce, in its most basic form, is a spicy condiment made from chili peppers. The origins of hot sauce date back to the ancient Aztecs, who believed in the medicinal value of chilies. They would mash up the chilies into a paste and mix it with water and other ingredients to create a rudimentary form of what we know today as hot sauce.
Types of paprika:
Chili products come in a myriad of forms, each with distinct applications in cooking. Ground chili powder, chili flakes, and chili paste are common pantry staples that provide convenient ways to add heat to dishes. Specialty products like chili oil and chili-infused sauces offer concentrated flavor, perfect for drizzling over finished dishes or using as a marinade. Beyond heat, some chili products are valued for their smoky or sweet undertones, which can enhance the complexity of a dish. For instance, chipotle chilies impart a smoky flavor, while certain Asian chili pastes bring a blend of sweetness and spice.
Paprika and bell peppers belong to the same family of plants, but they have distinct physical characteristics that set them apart. Here are some of the key differences:
The drying process is crucial in preserving the flavor and heat of the chillies. The chillies are typically dried in the sun or using specialized drying machines to ensure they are completely dehydrated. This process can take several days to complete, as it is important to dry the chillies slowly to maintain their flavor and heat levels.