We know it may be very tempting to simply swap in that ketchup sitting in the fridge, but spiciness is a primary expectation of chili sauce, and there’s obviously none in ketchup. Plus, it’s very simple to spice up that ketchup with chipotle or cayenne pepper to at least provide some heat.

Sweet paprika is the one most commonly found in supermarket aisles and adds vibrant colour to any dish it touches. Mild and delicate, and warm rather than hot, it’s the perfect choice if you want to add peppery flavour to your food without the heat. It tends to be more fruity and a little bitter too. If you’re cooking a recipe that doesn’t specify the type of paprika, sweet paprika is definitely your best bet.

Multiple reviewed studies have suggested that curcumin may help limit markers of oxidative stress in the blood by affecting the activity of enzymes that neutralize free radicals. Inflammatory response is a complex series of reactions in any tissue based on internal or external stimuli. The goal is to protect tissue and remove the initial cause of cell damage. However, a prolonged uncontrolled inflammatory response can lead to tissue damage beyond expectation.

Crushed red pepper factories play a crucial role in the spice industry, producing one of the most popular and versatile seasonings around the world. From pizza restaurants to home kitchens, crushed red pepper adds a touch of heat and depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. Let's delve into the world of crushed red pepper factories and learn more about this essential ingredient.

There is no easy answer to where paprika comes from. While paprika is closely associated with Hungary and Hungarian cuisine, paprika peppers did not arrive in that part of the world until the mid to late 16th century. The origin of all peppers can be traced to South America, where they grew wild and were distributed throughout South and Central America, mostly by birds. Eventually, peppers were cultivated, and native traders travelling through these regions carried them across the Caribbean as cargo in dugout canoes.  

The process of making paprika begins with the selection of ripe, red peppers. These peppers are harvested and then dried to remove the moisture content. Once dried, the peppers are ground into a fine powder, resulting in the characteristic bright red spice known as paprika.

Paprika spice is categorized based on its heat level, color intensity, and processing method. Hungarian paprika is renowned for its quality and variety, ranging from delicate to hot, with a spectrum of flavors in between. Spanish paprika, or pimentón, offers smoked varieties that elevate dishes with its distinctive smoky aroma and flavor. Paprika spice blends, such as sweet and spicy combinations, provide versatility for diverse culinary creations.

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”.