A common Middle Eastern spice, Aleppo chili powder is used to season meat, salads, sauces, and dips. Basically, you can use it as you would any type of paprika. Another notable similarity is their heat. Aleppo has moderate to medium heat with a salty and earthy flavor. But since it’s salty, this swap should not be one is to one. We suggest starting with ¼ teaspoon and gradually adding more to taste. 

Both crushed red pepper and paprika have their own unique characteristics that contribute to the world of culinary creativity. While crushed red pepper brings intense heat and pepperiness, paprika offers a spectrum of flavors, from sweet to smoky to hot. By understanding the distinctions between these spices and learning how to use them effectively, you can elevate your dishes and craft a culinary experience that delights the senses and awakens the palate.

Chipotle powder is probably the best smoked paprika substitute on your spice rack. Like the original ingredient, this replacement is also considered mildly spicy with a heat level that ranges from 2,500 to 8,000 Scoville Heat Unit (SHU) on the Scoville Scale. Made from smoked dried jalapeño peppers, this spice is also known for its remarkable smoky and earthy taste — the result of the smoking process. Its bright red color also closely resembles paprika. All things considered, the chipotle powder is a fantastic backup for smoky dishes rather than spicy recipes. 

Bell pepper, on the other hand, is a vegetable that is commonly used in cooking. It comes in various colors, including green, red, yellow, and orange. Bell peppers are typically eaten raw or cooked, and they have a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.

For long-time readers of our blog, yes, this sauce is THAT powerful. “The lady” is no longer my number one main homie. It’s this delightful concoction of garlic, chili, and soy.