What Does Paprika Taste Like?

In this article, we’re covering paprika.You’ll learn about the taste, texture and different kinds of paprika you can buy.Want to know how to boost the flavor of your favorite recipes with this spice?We’ll tell you all about that, too.

Save

Let’s get started…

What Does Paprika Taste Like? 

There are a few broad categories that paprika falls under: sweet, spicy and smoked.Sweet paprika is usually made from sweet bell peppers while spicy paprika is made with chili peppers.

No matter what type of paprika it is, it will taste a bit like the pepper it’s made with.Smoked paprika, on the other hand, will be mostly smoky and taste similar to chili powder. 

Both sweet and spicy paprikas can be smoked, and if you find that you like any type you try, it’s worth taking a trip to a specialty spice store that sells paprikas from around the world.

Paprika Texture

For the most part, paprika is ground into a fine powder.This is how you’ll find a standard bottle or jar of paprika from the supermarket.

If it’s homemade, it may be grittier.It can often depend on how powerful the spice grinder used to make it is.Paprikas made from scratch are also more fresh and vegetal in flavor.

You Might Also Like: What Does Parsnip Taste Like? What Do They Pair Well With?

What Can I Replace Paprika With? 

Spicy paprika can be replaced with chili powder or even red pepper flakes.Essentially, anything that’s mainly spicy might be a reasonable substitute.

Smoked paprika is replaceable with chipotle powder while sweet paprika is a little more of a challenge.Sweet bell peppers are closest to homemade sweet paprika, but the store-bought kind might be better swapped for the spicy and smoky alternatives, which will add extra kick.

Further Reading: What Does Pineapple Taste Like?

What Food Goes Well with Paprika? 

This is a perfect seasoning for vegan chili, soups and sauces.It’s also a good accompaniment to spices like cumin, coriander and chili powder as well as herbs like oregano and thyme.

There are tons of foods you can add paprika to.Think breakfast potatoes, tempeh bacon, savory vegan pies and veggies galore.Better yet, check out these recipes…

Read Also: What Does Peanut Butter Taste Like?

Paprika Recipes 

There’s almost no dish you can’t use paprika in, but if you’re just dipping your toes in the water, these videos will point you in the right direction. 

Have you ever heard of chicken paprikash?This is a vegan take on the Hungarian dish, creamy, savory and delicious.

Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chickpeas
• Olive oil
• Onions
• Garlic
• Paprika (any type you like)
• All-purpose flour
• Vegetable broth
• Crushed tomatoes
• Coconut milk
• Salt and pepper

Recommended Article: What Does Persimmon Taste Like?

Paprika is the kind of spice you want for vegan cheeses.This one features smoked paprika for a rich flavor.

Here are the ingredients:

• Water
• Oats
• Sweet potato
• Red bell pepper
• Nutritional yeast
• Smoked paprika
• Sea salt
• White pepper
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Lemon juice
• Agar agar powder

Read Also: Our Top Sweet Potato Fry Cutters

Wrap Up 

Paprika comes in three main types: sweet, smoked and spicy.It’s one of the most adaptable spices in your kitchen, excellent on breakfast potatoes, in vegan stews and in virtually any meal.Make chickpea paprikash on a comfort food night, and don’t forget the smoked paprika for vegan cheese.

Related Article: What Does Plum Sauce Taste Like?

Joey Bruno

Hey, I’m Joey. I’ve been cooking since I was a little kid and love everything about it. You can find my writing about food, kitchen appliances (such as blenders) and much more. Thanks for stopping by!