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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.  

Making homemade cayenne powder is easy, but should always be done in a well-ventilated space, or ideally outdoors! We make tons of our own homemade cayenne powder every year, as it is a simple way to add heat to our cooking. For a more flavorful result, use your cayenne powder to make a tasty spice blend like shichimi togarashi.

Is Cayenne Good for You?

If you can’t find fresh red chillies, just use the good old dried red chillies. Soak the dried chillies in warm water to rehydrate them and then grind them up. When your sauce is ready, you should see tiny pieces of chilli and minced garlic floating around. These little bits are the life of the sauce.

Hot paprika, on the other hand, is made from hotter varieties of red peppers, such as cayenne or chili peppers. It has a deeper red color and a much spicier, more intense flavor compared to sweet paprika. Hot paprika adds a fiery kick to dishes and is commonly used in spicy dishes like chili, curry, and spicy sausages. It is also a key ingredient in dishes from regions like Hungary and Spain, where it is used to add heat and flavor to traditional recipes.