Paprika is made from bell or chili peppers that have been finely ground two or more times without the veins and seeds, according to Katherine K. Schlosser, author of The Herb Society of America's Essential Guide to Growing and Cooking with Herbs. Because of that, you can swap sweet paprika for another pepper-based spice, such as cayenne or chili powder. Like using other types of paprika, these spices will lend your recipe a different flavor than you would get from the sweet paprika.

Overall, chili peppers can be a flavorful addition to a healthy diet, and their potential health benefits make them a valuable ingredient in many cuisines around the world.

Answer: Yes, the terms “crushed red pepper,” “chili flakes” and “red pepper flakes” are often used to describe the same product: dried and crushed red chili peppers, including both the flesh and the seeds. These spices are used interchangeably.

Powdered Spice

Paprika oleoresin is a natural extract derived from the spice paprika, which is made from ground, dried Capsicum annuum peppers. The oleoresin is obtained through a solvent extraction process that captures the essential oils, pigments, and flavors of paprika. It is a concentrated form of the spice, often used as a coloring and flavoring agent in the food industry.

The Scoville Scale was developed in 1912 by Wilbur Scoville, a pharmacist from the United States. To determine the SHU, an exact weight of hot pepper is dissolved in alcohol to extract the capsaicinoids components. These components are then diluted in a solution of sugar water and decreasing concentrations are given to a panel of trained tasters until a majority can no longer detect them in a diluted form. The heat level is then rated based on this dilution in multiples of 100 SHU. This system was initially purely organoleptic but nowadays is measured using HPLC (high-performance liquid chromatography) to prevent any deviation from sensory fatigue or the chosen panel´s resistance.

For long-time readers of our blog, yes, this sauce is THAT powerful. “The lady” is no longer my number one main homie. It’s this delightful concoction of garlic, chili, and soy.

Paprika is a deep, rich red color, while bell peppers come in a variety of colors, including green, red, yellow, and orange. The color of bell peppers depends on their ripeness, with green peppers being less ripe than red, yellow, or orange peppers.

Crushed Red Pepper: Crushed red pepper is synonymous with heat. Its fiery kick adds intense spiciness to dishes, making it a favorite among those who appreciate bold flavors. While its heat can vary, it is generally hotter than paprika.