

In the vibrant palette of culinary spices, the color red takes a prominent spot—embodying both the allure and the promise of heat that can kick the flavor of any dish up a notch. Although these spices share a common color, their origins, taste profiles and uses in cooking are distinct, making each one an indispensable ingredient in its own right.




Making homemade cayenne powder is easy, but should always be done in a well-ventilated space, or ideally outdoors! We make tons of our own homemade cayenne powder every year, as it is a simple way to add heat to our cooking. For a more flavorful result, use your cayenne powder to make a tasty spice blend like shichimi togarashi.
In addition to the quality of the paprika itself, it is also important to consider the packaging and storage of the product. Look for an exporter that packages their smoked paprika in airtight containers to preserve its freshness and flavor. Proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality of the spice, so make sure to choose an exporter that follows best practices for storing and handling the product.
I would highly recommend using fresh Thai red chillies (the smaller variety) if you can find them. They deliver that flaming red color and leave behind that spicy tingle on the tongue, usually associated with Asian sweet chilli sauce. Thai red chillies are spicy though, so be careful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Like many spices, cayenne and paprika may offer a range of health benefits. Both are loaded with nutrients and may have other healing qualities, too. And if you are wondering, is it worth buying organic spices— in order to have the highest quality and healthiest spices, it just might be.
For big proportions and mild needs: Spicy ketchup
When cooking with dried red pepper pods, it's important to handle them with care. The oils in the peppers can cause irritation to the skin and eyes, so it's best to wear gloves when handling them. Additionally, it's a good idea to remove the seeds from the pods before using them if you prefer a milder heat.

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.
Best for salsas and moles.