Spanish paprika is a popular spice blend very similar to regular paprika, except that it is made from smoked peppers that are ground into a warming, smoky mix. Learn all about it.
Who doesn't love a bit of paprika? Perfect for addition in any dish - whether it is just a dash or a heapful - paprika not only adds incredible taste to the mixture but also lends a gorgeous, rich color that adds so much to the depth of flavor and the overall culinary experience.
Regardless of whether you are an experienced chef or a home cook with a passion, having some paprika by your side is a habit that will always come in handy.
Not very many people know this, but every paprika powder is not the same. In fact, there are many different types of paprika, one of them being the deliciously spicy smoked Spanish Paprika.
What is Spanish Paprika?
Also called pimenton, Spanish Paprika is made from smoked peppers. A variety of peppers may be used and the flavor of the paprika may vary a bit depending on the kind of peppers used in the mix.
Is Spanish Paprika Hot?
When it comes to the taste and spice level, there is a bit of variation within the group. The hottest variety of Spanish Paprika, however, can go as high as 2900 Scoville Heat Units on the Scoville Scale. In regards to the taste, you have varieties that tend to be sweeter and varieties that amp up on the spiciness level, lending a tangy, smoky, and sharp taste.
How to Use Spanish Paprika?
The uses are practically unlimited. You can use it for almost any dish in your kitchen just as it is used extensively in the professional world. The smokiness adds a delicious element to the flavor profile. For example, you can add it to stews, lentils, as well as sauces for a dash of a spicy kick.
They are frequently used to amp up the smokiness level or as a substitute when you are unable to actually smoke a dish that calls for smoking.
Where to Buy Spanish Paprika?
You can easily find Spanish Paprika in the spice aisle of your local grocery store. In case they do not have it, you can turn to online stores and you will find some with ease. They are sold by the pound or in jars, and you can choose between mild, moderate, and hot varieties depending on your preference.
- Buy Spanish Paprika (affiliate link, my friends!)
What is a Substitute for Spanish Paprika?
Understandably, the best thing to substitute for Spanish Paprika are other kinds of paprika such as Hungarian Paprika or regular, plain paprika. It may not, however, provide the smokiness that classically comes with Spanish Paprika.
Other substitutes include Chipotle Chili Powder, which is made from smoked and dried jalapeno peppers, and chili powder mixed with some liquid smoke.
What is the Difference Between Spanish Paprika and Regular Paprika?
The classic, signature taste of a delicious Spanish Paprika lies in its deep, smoky flavor. This is because the peppers used to make it are smoke dried before they are crushed up into a fine powder, giving it an oaky, rustic, and deep flavor.
The earthiness of the Spanish Paprika blend makes it the ideal friend for dry rubs and barbecues. Regular paprika, on the other hand, lacks that smoky flavor and has a brighter and tangier taste.
Mavis Redman says
Is this Paprika considered a flavoring or a spice?
Mike Hultquist says
It's a spice, Mavis, with lots of flavor! Great stuff.
Fred Redman says
We have a British shop and sell British Style Bangers. We have a spice mixture that includes Spanish paprika. We have been using A USDA company to produce the bangers. A new USDA inspector has told us we can't use paprika as part of the spice mixture because he says paprika is NOT a spice "it's a coloring agent". Every reference we've checked says it IS a spice. HELP.
The inspector has put a hold on a shipment and won't let them be delivered.
Mike Hultquist says
What? This is so bizarre! Of course paprika is a spice. There are many spices used as coloring agents, like turmeric and achiote. Paprika is used all over the world for cooking. The inspector is ridiculous.