To make this paprika substitute, combine one part of tomato sauce with two parts of chili powder. Blend them well before measuring.

Paprika oleoresin is known for its vibrant red color and can range in heat levels, from mild to hot, depending on the type of paprika used in the extraction process. It is commonly used in the production of processed foods, seasonings, sauces, and meat products to impart a consistent color and flavor.

Why Aren't Bell Peppers Spicy?

In part one of this blog series we will give you a small overview; read all about what capsaicin is, where to find it and why it exists.

Mix Up the Peppers

Best for stews, salsas, soups, chilies, and sauces.

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.

When you look at the plethora of red chili powders available, you may well be confused as to how similar or how different they really are. As for paprika and red chili powder, both are red, though of different shades, and look quite similar.

Tomato sauce sports a nice bright red color and a sweet taste that mimics that of the sweet paprika. However, these qualities alone without the spice are not enough as a swap. Mixing it with chili powder will add the heat that tomato sauce lacks. There’s a catch, however. Since this backup is wet, it’s only good for recipes like stews and soups. 

Crushed red pepper is a staple in many kitchens, known for its fiery and bold flavor. This spice is made from dried and crushed red chili peppers, including the seeds and flakes. As a result, it packs a punch of heat along with a distinct pepperiness that can awaken your taste buds.

Chili sauce, on the other hand, is a slightly broader term that could refer to a variety of condiments containing chili peppers. Depending on the culture, chili sauce can be a liquid, a paste, or even a chunky salsa-like substance. Some believe that chili sauce originated from Thailand, while others think it started in the Americas, given the native chili peppers' origins.