Those who love Korean cuisine probably already know this next backup. Gochugaru powder is better known in the US as ground Korean chili powder. This famous Asian condiment is loved for its sweet and spicy taste with a subtle smoky note, making it a nice paprika alternative. It’s also prized for its color which adds a bright red hue to dishes like tteokbokki (Korean spicy rice cake) and yukgaejang (spicy beef soup).

Pimiento is a type of sweet pepper that is often used to make paprika. It has a mild and sweet flavor and is commonly used in Spanish cuisine, where it is used to flavor dishes such as pimento cheese, stuffed peppers, and tapas.

In addition to its culinary uses, crushed red pepper also offers a range of health benefits. It is rich in vitamins A and C, as well as capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Crushed red pepper is also believed to aid digestion and boost metabolism, making it a popular choice for those looking to enhance their overall health.

In recent years, the demand for paprika in China has been steadily increasing, as consumers become more adventurous with their cooking and seek out new flavors. This has led to a rise in the production of paprika in China, as farmers and producers work to meet the growing demand.

Basically made of paprika, cayenne pepper powder, garlic powder, oregano, and other flavorful seasonings, Cajun spice (also called Cajun seasoning) features a bold spicy flavor with a subtle earthiness. Although it contains the combined heat of paprika and cayenne, this seasoning is considered mild because, again, it’s made with a combination of seasonings. Despite being made from a combination of spices, some versions are still hot because different brands pack different amounts of ground peppers in their bottle. For this reason, we recommend testing this alternative first before using it.

Sweet Paprika

Paprika oleoresin is a natural food coloring and flavoring agent that is derived from the paprika pepper. It is commonly used in a variety of food products to provide a vibrant red color and a mild peppery taste. Paprika oleoresin is made by extracting the pigments and essential oils from dried paprika peppers, resulting in a concentrated liquid form.

Chili powder is a versatile spice that adds heat and flavor to a variety of dishes. There are many different types of chili powder available, each with its own unique flavor profile and level of spiciness. Understanding the differences between these types can help you choose the right one for your cooking needs.

The Vibrant Spectrum of Paprika

Color

Best for stews, salsas, soups, chilies, and sauces.

Don’t stop there! Feel free to get creative and use your homemade paprika seasoning in soups, stews or roasted meats.

Sweet smoked paprika, also known as pimentón, is a distinctive type of paprika that is smoked over oak wood before being ground. This process imparts a rich, smoky flavor that elevates dishes with its depth and complexity. Sweet smoked paprika is particularly popular in Spanish cuisine, where it is used in dishes like patatas bravas, roasted meats, and stews. Its sweet yet smoky flavor pairs well with grilled vegetables, seafood, and even cheese-based dishes. The unique taste of sweet smoked paprika makes it a favorite among chefs looking to add a sophisticated twist to traditional recipes.