Best for marinades, rubs, curries, and salad dressings.

The main ingredient of turmeric that has attracted attention is Curcumin. There have been reports that the curcumin-like polyphenols have pharmaceutical properties, including helping control inflammatory responses, degenerative eye diseases, and even metabolic syndrome. Polyphenols are plant metabolites that help protect plants from ultraviolet rays, insects, bacteria and even viruses. They are also a source of bitterness, acidity, color, flavor, and oxidizing power.

“Regular” paprika, also called American, sweet, basic, or Domestic Paprika, is what’s found in most grocery stores. It is gentle and earthy with an unassertive flavor. Regular paprika is never smoked. It makes a terrific backdrop for more strongly-flavored ingredients, so it’s often used as a flavor base in dry rubs or blends. It is often favored for its ability to deliver a bold, red color.