1. CAYENNE PEPPER POWDER

Similar Spices

For traditional recipes that call for paprika, it's best to use what the recipe calls for, as the paprika is there for a reason, and its flavor and color are intended to give the dish an overall flavor profile and aspect that substitutions can't add.

Simmer for Flavor. Pour the chili sauce into a small pot or sauce pan. Heat and simmer for 10 minutes to let the flavors meld and develop. This is an important step. Taste and adjust for salt, honey, and other spices. Add more water for a thinner sauce. It's really meant to be a thicker sauce, and it will thicken up as it cools, but if you prefer a thinner sauce, go for it!

Because of the generalness of the term “chili sauce”, when it’s called for you have to give consideration to the context of the recipe and your heat tolerance.

If it's just a small amount, like half a teaspoon or less, you could conceivably get away with substituting chili powder, which is mainly paprika along with other seasonings such as garlic, salt, cumin, and a bit of cayenne. It's slightly hotter than plain paprika, but not overwhelmingly so. Some other ground red peppers like ancho chili powder, chipotle powder, or hot sauce would also work. Chili powder will also suffice if the paprika is just being used for a garnish. With these spices, you can go with a 1:1 ratio of the substitute spice to the paprika amount needed.