


There is no easy answer to where paprika comes from. While paprika is closely associated with Hungary and Hungarian cuisine, paprika peppers did not arrive in that part of the world until the mid to late 16th century. The origin of all peppers can be traced to South America, where they grew wild and were distributed throughout South and Central America, mostly by birds. Eventually, peppers were cultivated, and native traders travelling through these regions carried them across the Caribbean as cargo in dugout canoes.
Paprika is often used for seasoning meat and is a common ingredient in rubs, marinades, sauces and stews. So make sure you have some nearby the next time you fire up the barbeque. In the US, you’ll see paprika sprinkled over deviled eggs, eggs benedict and french fries to give a spicy kick, and it’s often scattered on top of creamy soups to add both colour and sweetness. It’s also sprinkled on top of hummus and used as a substitute to flour for thickening sauces. Add paprika in pasta sauce, or any tomato-based dish to add a burst of flavour and gorgeous colour. The next time you cook mac and cheese – try adding smoked paprika – it takes it to a whole different level.