Big bag sewing machine

Why Aren't Bell Peppers Spicy?

How Hot Is Paprika?

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. 

While bell peppers may not be spicy, it doesn't make them any less pleasing than hot chilies. In fact, many of you may already be eating bell peppers in their dried, ground form, or as paprika. Yes, that deep red spice in your cupboard called paprika is in fact made from red bell peppers. Use fresh bell peppers or paprika just like you would spicy chilies. A fantastic thing to do with bell peppers is to combine them with hot chilies, which will both tone down the heat and add a new layer of flavor. The possibilities are truly endless. 

While paprika and cayenne have their own stories and benefits, the real differences lie in their culinary uses. In the kitchen, the difference between cayenne and paprika shows up in three ways:

Q: Can I substitute crushed red pepper for paprika or vice versa? A: While both spices have distinct flavors, you can substitute one for the other if you're looking to adjust heat levels.

Spicy ketchup will obviously be sweeter and very mild in comparison to Sriracha, so as an ingredient, it’s good for big proportions (like for meatloaf). We wouldn’t use it for more authentic chili sauce needs (go with Sriracha there), but based on your recipe context, it can work.

Mildness with Vibrancy

That said, black pepper or white pepper has a distinct spiciness and heat level that can match what paprika brings to the table. In fact, I add the same amount of ground black pepper or white pepper when using it to substitute hot paprika in my recipe.

In conclusion, paprika and crushed red pepper offer an array of flavors and heat levels that enhance dishes across various cuisines. Whether you're exploring the rich diversity of paprika varieties, choosing the right type of paprika spice, experimenting with Chinese crushed red pepper, or stocking up on bulk options, these spices are essential for creating flavorful and memorable meals. Embrace their versatility to elevate your cooking and satisfy your culinary cravings with vibrant and spicy flavors.

 Use La Vera Smoked Sweet Paprika to make tapas like patatas bravas—roasted potatoes with a seasoned aioli—or artichokes simmered in garlic sauce. It’s wonderful in Spanish style stews, on roasted chicken or fish, and in a classic Spanish romesco sauce, blended from tomatoes and bell peppers and thickened with bread and almonds.  

Paprika is known for its smoky and sweet taste, and is commonly used in Hungarian and Spanish cuisine as a seasoning for stews, soups, and meat dishes. On the other hand, bell peppers have a mild and slightly sweet taste, and are often used in salads, stir-fries, and as a topping for pizzas and sandwiches.