Although sriracha currently has no parallel in the culinary world, it’s spicy cousin sambal oelek is slowly giving it a run for its money. These two chili-based sauces have a lot in common, from chili, salt, vinegar and water, so much is the same. The difference comes down to the garlic and sugar used in sriracha sauce and of course in the cooking methodology.
If you’re willing to go the extra mile and would rather make your own paprika, then follow the recipe below. After all, homemade food (and spice) is always better!
There are a number of herbs and spices that will help add even more flavour to your dishes alongside paprika. Rosemary is a popular herb in Mediterranean cuisine and adds a sweet, intense flavour to grilled chicken and lamb, potatoes and roast vegetables. Oregano also pairs well with paprika. Full of flavour, it brings citrus and anise flavours to your dishes. Try it alongside paprika when you’re cooking a whole chicken, making crispy potatoes or marinade for your barbeque. And if you’re looking for a complementary spice, try cumin. It brings a spicy, warm flavour and earthy colour to a number of dishes, including meats, vegetables, potatoes, soups and stews. Paprika also goes well with caraway, garlic, ginger and thyme.
How to make smoked paprika
This type of chili sauce is super popular served as a dip for chilled shrimp and other seafood, though it's a wonderful marinade, a general condiment for topping burgers and hot dogs, or for seasoning dishes like meatloaf.
Lastly, let’s talk about cayenne powder. Cayenne is probably the simplest spice in this article, as it contains just one ingredient: Cayenne pepper.

However, while cayenne pepper isn’t a spot on match when it comes to taste, it is possible to mix it with something sweet as this will make it taste more like paprika. Something like honey is ideal but you might also want to add some cream or salt to dampen down the heat if you’re not a fan of super hot foods.


Paprika is a spice made from dried and ground red peppers. It is commonly used in various cuisines around the world for its rich flavor and vibrant color. One of the most popular varieties of paprika is natural paprika, which is made from peppers that are grown and harvested without the use of artificial pesticides or fertilizers. Natural paprika suppliers play a crucial role in providing high-quality paprika to consumers who value natural and organic ingredients in their food.
What Customers Say: “Slow heat and a long aftertaste. It has a very vinegary aroma that catches the first taste, little bit of garlic, and the heat sort of rises up slowly and lingers long after. It's a perfect combo and must-have for any Cajun flavor fanatics.”
This is my shortcut for salt-preserved chilies. I’m not really sure if it actually approximates salt-preserved chilies, but it does add really great spice and texture! Set aside and prepare the rest of your ingredients.