Spanish paprika, or pimentón, is a celebrated spice throughout that country, with controlled production that must be monitored to meet traditional standards in how these peppers are grown and processed. Murcia, in southeastern Spain, produces paprika that is sweet and mild. Paprika produced in La Vera, found in western Spain, can be sweet, spicy, or bittersweet. The celebrated pimentón de La Vera are smoked for extra flavor. 

The price of paprika per kilogram in China is influenced by various factors, such as the quality of the peppers used, the processing methods, and the supply and demand in the market. Some regions in China are known for producing high-quality paprika, which can fetch a higher price per kilogram compared to lower quality varieties.

FAQ: Can I use paprika instead of crushed red pepper, or vice versa, and what impact does it have on a dish?

While hot sauce is all about the heat, chili sauce often presents a balance between spicy, sweet, and tangy flavors. Therefore, hot sauce is typically used when you want to increase the spiciness of a dish without altering its fundamental taste, while chili sauce is used to add a new dimension of flavor.