




Paprika originated in Mexico, but it was Christopher Columbus who brought it to Europe in the 15th century. The spice became popular in Hungary, where it was cultivated and improved over the centuries. Today, Hungary is known for producing some of the best paprika in the world, with a range of varieties that vary in flavor, heat, and color.
How capsaicin concentration is determined
BEST FOR CHILI: GHOST PEPPER HOT SAUCE
Slice the fresh chili peppers thinly. Place into a mortar and pestle along with 2 teaspoons salt. Grind and mix thoroughly with the pestle. You don’t need to form a paste, just break down the peppers slightly.
5. BELL PEPPER POWDER
Paprika spice is categorized based on its heat level, color intensity, and processing method. Hungarian paprika is renowned for its quality and variety, ranging from delicate to hot, with a spectrum of flavors in between. Spanish paprika, or pimentón, offers smoked varieties that elevate dishes with its distinctive smoky aroma and flavor. Paprika spice blends, such as sweet and spicy combinations, provide versatility for diverse culinary creations.
So, if bell peppers are in the same scientific classification as cayenne chili pepper, why aren't bell peppers hot? It comes down to a chemical compound called capsaicin. This chemical is the sole reason why a jalapeño is spicy and bell pepper is not. A bell pepper has no capsaicin. Capsaicin attaches itself to the mucous membranes in our mouths which in turn send out the fiery sensation. That heat in your mouth (or hands) will vary greatly depending on what type of chili pepper you've eaten. Peppers are ranked by their heat, or the amount of capsaicin they contain, on a scale called the Scoville Scale. Their capsaicin concentration is given a number on the scale and it is called Scoville Heat Units. Bell peppers do not have capsaicin, so they have zero Scoville Heat Units, therefore they are way at the bottom of the Scoville scale.


Q: Is crushed red pepper the same as red pepper flakes? A: Yes, crushed red pepper is often referred to as red pepper flakes, as it consists of dried and crushed red chili peppers.
