The second detail is actually a very well known use for capsaicin: natural pest repellent! Once a plant starts growing, things are not rosy and fine all the time. In fact, the growing process is tough and plants have to survive all types of hardships; from extreme weather conditions to natural predators and getting enough nutrients. What if you could erase one of those hardships? Capsaicin is a natural repellent for insects and even fungi, so the fruit is more likely to develop and mature as it should.

However, its spiciness and heat level make it an excellent substitute for paprika powder. It's available in mild, moderately hot, and hot varieties, so you can easily replace any hot paprika variety in your recipe.

In conclusion, understanding the differences between paprika and bell pepper can help you choose the right ingredient for your recipe. Whether you’re looking to add a bit of spice or a pop of color to your dish, both paprika and bell pepper can be great options.

Now, what if you have regular paprika but don’t have the smoked variant? Can you still use it? The answer is yes! But only if you combine it with cumin and cayenne. On its own, regular or plain paprika doesn’t have the flavor that its smoked version is known for. Mixing it with cumin will bring a rich and earthy flavor, while cayenne adds heat and smokiness. With all three, you can create something close to smoked paprika.