Paprika originates from central Mexico, but it was brought to Europe in the 16th century by Christopher Columbus. Sometime after, paprika made its way to Hungary, and has been a staple food there ever since. Paprika is the Hungarian word for pepper. It’s the country’s national spice, and they spoon it on to pretty much any dish you can think of – from soups, stews and sauces to rice and eggs. It plays the starring role in Hungary’s most celebrated dish – goulash (a warming winter stew made from red meat, onions, potatoes and vegetables, served over egg noodles).

In summary, bell peppers are not called paprika; rather, they are the primary ingredient used to make paprika. The name paprika is derived from the Hungarian word paprika, and it has become synonymous with the ground spice made from dried red peppers. Bell peppers are chosen for their flavor and color, making them an ideal ingredient for producing the beloved spice known as paprika.

Remember that not all regular chili powders are the same. Most are made with a blend of different peppers, but some contain other spices like onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, and oregano.

WHAT ARE RED PEPPER FLAKES?

So, when you’re craving more of that smoky, earthy flavor, should you reach for paprika or cayenne? Whether you're looking to buy bulk seasoning or just a couple jars, a better question might be: Do you even need both of these spices in your pantry? In this quick comparison of paprika vs cayenne, we’ll look at where they came from, when to use them, and why they both belong in your spice rack.