When it comes to appearance, paprika is usually sold in powdered form, while bell peppers are sold as whole or sliced vegetables. Paprika also comes in different varieties, such as sweet, hot, and smoked, which can affect its flavor profile.

Making homemade cayenne powder is easy, but should always be done in a well-ventilated space, or ideally outdoors! We make tons of our own homemade cayenne powder every year, as it is a simple way to add heat to our cooking. For a more flavorful result, use your cayenne powder to make a tasty spice blend like shichimi togarashi.

Paprika is known for its smoky and slightly bitter flavor, with a spicy kick that ranges from mild to hot. The level of spiciness depends on the type of paprika used, with Hungarian paprika being the spiciest and Spanish paprika being the mildest. The smoky flavor comes from the way the peppers are dried and smoked before being ground into powder. Paprika is commonly used in Hungarian, Spanish, and Moroccan cuisine, and is a key ingredient in dishes such as goulash, paella, and tagines.

It's important to note that individual tolerance to spiciness can vary, so what one person finds extremely spicy, another person might find tolerable. When cooking with chili peppers, it's important to consider the heat level of the specific variety being used and adjust the amount accordingly to achieve the desired level of spiciness in a dish.

In summary, paprika is made from dried and ground Capsicum annuum peppers, resulting in a versatile spice with a range of flavors and heat levels. Whether it's sweet, hot, or smoked, paprika adds depth, color, and flavor to a wide variety of dishes, making it a beloved ingredient in many culinary traditions.