The Plants are of the Same Family

In addition to its health benefits, hot chili sauce also adds a burst of flavor to dishes. The combination of chili peppers, garlic, and vinegar creates a tangy and spicy taste that can enhance the overall enjoyment of a meal. Many people find that adding hot chili sauce to their food not only increases the heat level but also adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.

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.

When shopping for paprika in China, it is important to consider the quality of the spice before making a purchase. Higher-quality paprika tends to have a more vibrant color and a stronger flavor, making it worth the slightly higher price tag. It is also important to store paprika in a cool, dark place to preserve its flavor and color for longer.

Balancing Heat: When using crushed red pepper, start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat tolerance. For paprika, choose the type that best complements your dish's flavor profile.

Red pepper flakes, also known as crushed red pepper, are made from dried and crushed whole red chili peppers—including the seeds, which contribute to its heat. This spice is renowned for its ability to deliver a consistent, fiery flavor with a slightly fruity undertone, making it a favorite for sprinkling over pizza, pasta dishes, and stir-fries. Red pepper flakes are versatile and can be used in cooking or as a garnish to add a bit of spice to any dish.

When Christopher Columbus landed in the Bahamas in 1492, he was the first European to have an encounter with any sort of chile pepper plant. He brought the ancestor of all paprika back with him to Europe and specifically to his patrons, the Spanish monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella. The king and queen did not care for their fiery heat and sent them to a monastery to be studied. These monks sent them further along across Spain and Portugal. From there, chile peppers made their way across Europe. Some peppers stayed spicy, like those in Calabria, but other European cultures experimented with their breeding and created the sweet and flavorful varieties of peppers that give us paprika today. 

What to do then? Which substitute would work best?

FAQs About Crushed Red Pepper and Paprika