In order to generate this chain of chemical reactions, signaling molecules are produced and released by the cell, leading to more inflammatory responses and a continuous cycle of cells and molecules, meaning that the inflammatory response becomes more severe. Many studies have shown that curcumin blocks these cellular signals, thus helping to maintain the number of inflammatory response proteins and cells. However, in many of these studies, researchers have found that curcumin has poor bioavailability.

Where is Paprika Most Commonly Used?

In addition to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, curcumin has also been shown to have anti-cancer effects. Studies have found that curcumin can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in certain types of cancer. While more research is needed in this area, the potential of curcumin as a natural cancer treatment is promising.

Finish off with 2 tablespoons of light soy sauce, and you’ve got a delicious jar of homemade chiu chow oil! (Feel free to re-season with up to a teaspoon of additional salt if needed. You may want to wait until it’s cooled first to get a more accurate read on the flavor.)

Paprika can be made from several different varietals of the chile pepper family Capsicum annuum, though the different peppers all tend to be of the relatively long, tapered kind with thinner flesh. Fat, thick-fleshed sweet peppers, like a standard Bell pepper that you’ll find in your average grocery store, often don’t dry well enough to make a ground product and are prone to mold. They are valued for their bright red color as much as--or even more than--their flavor. The American Spice Trade Association, or ASTA, came up with a scale to measure paprika's color. The ASTA score goes from 50-180; 85 is a standard-grade color value. As the numbers go up, the color of the paprika is more saturated and vibrant.

Like with most spices, you'll come across several varieties of hot paprika. They differ in heat levels and coarseness. From mild to extra-hot and coarse to fine powder, you will surely find a variety that will work best for your recipe.