So, why is it there?

You deserve the best, so take some time to think about how a hot sauce is made and what kind of ingredients it contains before you dive in mouth-first. Some hot sauces are all-natural, while others contain all kinds of artificial flavors and additives. We believe that fresh always tastes better, so we recommend choosing the most natural hot sauce you can find. Also, keep in mind that some recipes contain ingredients like sugar, sodium, oils, or even animal by-products, so if you have a specialized diet take a careful look at the ingredient list and nutrition information before taking that first bite.

Ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 SHU, cayenne is definitely spicier than hot paprika. All the same, this ingredient is one of the best hot paprika substitutes there is because of its striking color and noticeable heat level.

If you don't have any paprika in the house, you can use any number of alternate spices, as long as you realize that the flavor of the final product won't taste the same as it would with the sweet paprika. Use nutmeg, cinnamon or cloves instead of paprika in a deviled egg or potato salad recipe. Replace the paprika in chili with mace, mustard, garlic powder or cumin, or use ground ginger or black pepper instead of paprika in your favorite fried rice recipe.

Sweet paprika, also known as mild paprika, is made from sweet red peppers, such as bell peppers or other mild varieties. It has a vibrant red color and a mild, sweet flavor with little to no heat. Sweet paprika is often used to add color and a subtle, sweet flavor to dishes such as soups, stews, and deviled eggs. It is a popular ingredient in Hungarian and Spanish cuisines, where it is used in dishes like goulash and paella.

Overall, the two main types of paprika, sweet and hot, offer different flavor profiles and heat levels, allowing cooks to choose the right type of paprika to enhance the taste of their dishes. Whether adding a touch of sweetness or a fiery punch, paprika is a versatile spice that can elevate a wide range of recipes.

In case you run out, use the following sweet or regular paprika substitution options below:

In terms of health benefits, paprika and bell pepper have been shown to have positive impacts on health. Paprika has been found to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It may also help improve digestion and reduce cholesterol levels.

The heat level in hot sauce usually exceeds that of chili sauce. Hot sauce is meant to add a spicy kick to dishes, whereas chili sauce aims for a balance between heat and other flavors.