The reason bell peppers are often used to make paprika is due to their mild and sweet flavor, as well as their vibrant red color. When dried and ground, bell peppers produce a sweet paprika with a rich red hue, adding both flavor and color to a wide range of dishes.

Substitutes for Sweet Paprika: 

Culinary Uses of Bell Peppers

However, they are very different spices, with a very different flavor profile, taste and usage. Let us see how they are different and how they are similar.

Most of the best quality paprika comes from either Hungary or Spain. These countries have very different ways of making the spice. In Hungary, the peppers are commonly cured and sun dried. In Spain, the peppers are often cured over smoldering oak logs in large barns for a deep and smoky flavor.

Powdered Spice

Hungarian paprika is known for its fantastic flavor and vibrant red color. But what peppers are traditionally used to make this beloved spice in Hungary? Let’s dive into the classic choices and some accessible alternatives if you’re in the United States. Traditionally, Hungarian paprika is made from specific pepper varieties like Kalocsai and Szegedi. These peppers, part of the Capsicum annuum family, bring their own unique characteristics to the table. However, not all Capsicum annuum peppers are suitable for making paprika.