All types of paprika are made from peppers belonging to the Capsicum annuum family. However, hot paprika is made using spicier peppers and will include the inner piths.
Oleoresin capsicum is a concentrated extract that combines the resin and essential oils of capsicum peppers. This potent substance is known for its intense heat and is commonly used in both culinary and industrial applications. In the food industry, oleoresin capsicum is used as a flavoring agent in sauces, seasonings, and spicy snacks, providing a consistent and controlled heat level. Industrially, it is a key ingredient in self-defense pepper sprays due to its ability to cause temporary blindness and severe irritation when sprayed, providing an effective means of protection.

china dried chilli padi. Capsaicin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties, making it a popular choice for those looking to add a healthy kick to their meals.
How capsaicin concentration is determined
Paprika powder is widely used in cuisines around the world, including Hungarian, Spanish, and Indian cuisines, among others. It is a versatile spice that can be used to season meats, stews, soups, vegetables, and rice dishes. It is also a key ingredient in spice blends such as goulash seasoning, curry powder, and various rubs and marinades.


- Paprika oleoresin is a concentrated extract that contains a higher concentration of the active compounds, including the pigments and essential oils responsible for the vibrant color and distinct flavor of paprika. It is valued for its intense color and flavor, making it suitable for a wide range of applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
It's important to note that individual responses to turmeric can vary, and it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a daily turmeric regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. As with any dietary supplement, moderation and informed decision-making are key to ensuring its safe and effective use.
Spanish Paprika
To recreate the spice of hot paprika, the best substitute is another dried chilli, like ground cayenne, aleppo pepper powder, crushed red pepper flakes, red chilli powder, or even a dash of hot sauce. If your recipe calls for smokiness and sweetness, try chipotle chilli powder or ancho pepper powder. Chipotle powder has a smoky taste, but is hotter than paprika with a more earthy flavour, lending itself to barbecue sauces, rubs and chillis. Due to the difference in heat, use a ¼ teaspoon of chipotle powder for every teaspoon of paprika and adjust depending on your taste buds.
If you’re looking to replicate the flavour of sweet paprika add a pinch of sugar or some honey. Adding mild chilli powder or tomato powder works too. Bell peppers are another great substitute for sweet paprika and they come from the same Capsicum annuum family. Mild, sweet and aromatic, bell peppers give the same delicious taste and aroma, while adding a splash of colour too. When buying your bell peppers, make sure they’re nice and ripe.
One of the best substitutes for paprika is cayenne pepper. It’s a spicy chilli pepper, used to flavour many different cuisines and quite similar in colour. It’s a lot stronger and hotter than paprika, so if you’re using it as a substitute in your cooking, make sure you use a lesser quantity. If you have a lower tolerance to spicy food, you can add salt, cream, chopped tomatoes or more liquid (water or broth) to try and dial down the heat.
Like paprika, chilli powder packs a lot of flavour and is another worthy substitute. It’s also not as spicy as cayenne pepper, so you can use the same quantities. The same goes for cajun spices. A combination of black and white pepper, plus other herbs and spices, it can work as a good substitute for smoked or sweet paprika, offering a similar flavour. But you won’t get the same beautiful red colour – more of an orange, warm hue.
You can also use cumin instead of paprika. But it’s a lot hotter, so go easy on the quantities. Like cajun spices, you won’t achieve the gorgeous red colour of paprika, as cumin has more of a yellowy-brown colouring, but you’ll still get an earthy flavour with hints of bitterness and sweetness.
One of the most well-known brands of hot chili sauce is Huy Fong Foods' Sriracha sauce. Produced in California, this iconic sauce is loved for its bold flavor and versatility. Whether used as a dipping sauce for spring rolls, a topping for noodles, or a marinade for grilled meats, hot chili sauce can elevate the taste of any meal.