Sometimes you may find yourself missing a key spice in the middle of cooking. Don’t worry—there are several clever substitutions for common red pepper spices that can save your dish without sacrificing flavor. Remember, though, that when substituting spices, it’s good to start with a conservative amount and adjust to taste.

You have a few options when it comes to spicy ketchup. You can easily make it yourself (see our recipe for smoky chipotle ketchup) or you can buy one of the many options available at most grocery stores. Heinz also carries a chili sauce in its line (affiliate link) that’s really much more like spicy ketchup than a Sriracha.

Boom! Done! Making chili sauce at home is incredibly easy, isn't it? It's really just whisking the ingredients together in a bowl and some simmering. I love this stuff.

To use Aleppo chili powder in your recipe, add the same amount or half the amount of what's listed in your recipe for hot paprika.

Paprika is made from ground dried red peppers, ranging from sweet bell peppers to hotter varieties. Originating from Hungary and Spain, paprika comes in several varieties, including sweet, smoked and hot, each delivering a different level of heat and complexity.

COMMON RED PEPPER VARIETIES

USES

There are countless variations of chili powder recipes, with some being much more complex than others. However, with just a few readily available ingredients, you can make your own amazing homemade chili powder.

Not only is paprika delicious, but it’s also nutritious. Along with moderate amounts of vitamin A, E, and B6, one tablespoon of paprika contains (among other things):

Who would have thought that when you combine tomato sauce with chili powder, you end up with one of the best substitutes for paprika? The tomato sauce will provide the required color and a bit of umami-ness, while the chili powder will add the kick of spice and heat.