There is no easy answer to where paprika comes from. While paprika is closely associated with Hungary and Hungarian cuisine, paprika peppers did not arrive in that part of the world until the mid to late 16th century. The origin of all peppers can be traced to South America, where they grew wild and were distributed throughout South and Central America, mostly by birds. Eventually, peppers were cultivated, and native traders travelling through these regions carried them across the Caribbean as cargo in dugout canoes.  

Because paprika and cayenne come from peppers, both can technically trace their roots back to the Americas. However, the two spices don’t come from the same kind of pepper—nor are they prepared the same way.

Origins of Chili Sauce

Powdered cayenne pepper vs chili powder may look similar, but they taste very different. While both of these spices contain capsaicin, the substance in hot peppers that makes your mouth burn, cayenne pepper usually packs a bigger punch.

It's important to note that while chili peppers offer potential health benefits, individual responses to spicy foods can vary. Some people may experience digestive discomfort or irritation from consuming chili peppers, particularly in large amounts. As with any dietary component, it's best to consume chili peppers in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Let's get into some history. Capsaicin was first extracted in 1816 by Christian Fridrich. Further work by John Clough Thresh led to its naming in 1876, but it wasn´t until 1898 that Karl Micko isolated the compound in pure crystalline form. A century later, in 1997, David Julius discovered and cloned the cellular receptor for capsaicin, and brought a new level of understanding on how capsaicin works. We´ll get more into this science in the second part of this blog.

In addition to the quality of the paprika itself, it is also important to consider the packaging and storage of the product. Look for an exporter that packages their smoked paprika in airtight containers to preserve its freshness and flavor. Proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality of the spice, so make sure to choose an exporter that follows best practices for storing and handling the product.

One of the main benefits of purchasing raw turmeric powder from suppliers is the assurance of quality. Suppliers often conduct rigorous quality control checks on their products to ensure that they meet the required standards. This includes testing for purity, potency, and contamination levels. By purchasing from reputable suppliers, consumers can be confident that they are getting a product that is safe and effective.

Origins

WHAT FLAVOURS COMPLEMENT PAPRIKA?

Spice Up Your Meals