Unlock the Benefits of Paprika: A Spice with Power

SEPT 9, 2020

Paprika is a flavorful and versatile ingredient all organizations must have in their arsenals. It has been widely cultivated for hundreds of years. In Hungary, it’s a central ingredient in their most celebrated dish, Goulash, and it was a critical component of research that earned Hungarian Biochemist, Albert Szent-Györgyi, a Nobel Prize. The Hungarian government even nationalized all production of the pepper after World War II. You’d think it originated here, but the paprika plant has actually been traced back 7,500+ miles away.

In 1594, Peter Martyr wrote that the peppers brought home from North America were “more pungent than that from the Caucasus.” A simple endorsement, but from that moment on, the sweet and spicy ingredient exploded across Europe.  

While this culinary transformation was occurring in Europe, Native Americans had already been utilizing paprika and the pepper plant for thousands of years. Dating back to 7,000 BCE the paprika plant was a staple. When ancient Mayan, Aztec and Inca populations were thriving in the Americas, they had accumulated a vast store of knowledge about the paprika plant’s medicinal benefits. The active ingredient, capsaicin, is one of the underlying components of paprika’s many benefits.

Paprika was and continues to be popular in many forms -- bringing a bright vibrance and flavor to otherwise bland dishes. It has undergone selective breeding for hundreds of years in Europe to achieve different quality criteria and has been deeply adopted throughout the world. 

There are a few different types of paprika, including hot, smoked, Spanish, and sweet paprika. Each type is made from a specific group of peppers, such as red bell peppers or Spanish chiles. 

People use paprika in a variety of dishes, though it’s commonly incorporated in Portuguese, Spanish, and Turkish cuisine. Chicken paprikash and paella are just two examples of plates that feature paprika, though you can also incorporate this spice in other applications: 

• Add paprika to dry rubs and marinades for meats
• A sprinkle of paprika effortlessly adds a colorful and flavorful garnish to deviled eggs and roasted potatoes
• Create your own snack seasonings and include paprika
• Infuse your favorite oils with paprika for an added kick
• Mix paprika in sauces, soups, and stews
• Use paprika as a seasoning for grilled or roasted vegetables

Additionally, due to their numerous benefits, paprika is commonly used in animal nutrition as well as cosmetics such as hair and skin care products. Paprika contains an extensive range of vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.

As you can, paprika uses and benefits are plentiful. For quality paprika products, consider purchasing through ofi, one of the world’s leading bulk paprika suppliers. Our paprika is produced to meet stringent specifications, and we take pride in our paprika ingredients. Further, our practices allow us to improve farmer livelihoods and food systems. 

At ofi, we are committed to providing the most accurate, competitive pricing on our site. Our paprika prices allow you to stock up on this spice while staying aware of current market fluctuations. 

With our wide variety of paprika products and quick shipping, your facility can keep operating efficiently to satisfy customers. 

Our experienced team gives businesses tailored insights to help them bring their next culinary ideas to fruition. No matter your organization’s requirements, our advisors can assist you in choosing the best ingredients for your unique recipes.

Ready to shop our sustainably grown paprika? Start by browsing all our paprika powder offerings. 

Ready to taste the difference for yourself? Create your account to request free samples of our bulk spices today. 

Explore other blogs

Your Guide to Specialty Peppers

Growing Responsibly: Sustainable California Garlic