While bell peppers may not be spicy, it doesn't make them any less pleasing than hot chilies. In fact, many of you may already be eating bell peppers in their dried, ground form, or as paprika. Yes, that deep red spice in your cupboard called paprika is in fact made from red bell peppers. Use fresh bell peppers or paprika just like you would spicy chilies. A fantastic thing to do with bell peppers is to combine them with hot chilies, which will both tone down the heat and add a new layer of flavor. The possibilities are truly endless. 

Paprika is not only used for its vibrant color but also for its distinct flavor profile. It can range from being sweet and mild to being hot and spicy, depending on the variety of peppers used to make it. In China, paprika is often used in dishes such as stir-fries, soups, and marinades to add a depth of flavor and a pop of color.

There are a few main factors that go into giving any hot sauce recipe its signature deliciousness. By understanding the primary flavor components, you can make an informed decision and feel like a true hot sauce aficionado, never to choose the wrong hot sauce again. Consider these factors when selecting the best hot sauce:

FLAVOR PROFILE

RECIPE INSTRUCTIONS

Need to know how to use chili paste with garlic? Your gorgeous red chili garlic sauce pairs perfectly with Vietnamese cuisine, especially my Vietnamese pizza. It is also a perfect addition to Asian dishes such as my chili oil ramen or stir fry dishes. You can make a spicy dipping sauce for hot pot!

Why is paprika named differently from bell pepper?

Green Bell Peppers

Paprika powder comes in various types, including sweet paprika, hot paprika, and smoked paprika, each offering different flavor profiles and heat levels. Sweet paprika is mild and sweet, adding vibrant color to dishes, while hot paprika provides a spicy kick. Smoked paprika, such as Spanish pimentón, has a distinct smoky flavor due to the peppers being smoked over oak fires.

On the other hand, paprika is much milder and the SHU ranges from 100-1,500 SHU, again depending on the variety of the plant it comes from. As far as the heat factor is concerned, the Indian red chili powder is much hotter than paprika.

Cayenne comes from the cayenne pepper. These peppers are also part of the Capsicum annuum family, but they’re much hotter than the peppers used to make paprika (from 35,000 Scoville heat units and up).