02-08-2025
People are just realizing what paprika is made from and why it is red
It is one of the most common spices in the kitchen, used for everything from seasoning meat to flavoring stews.
But the exact origin of paprika has many people scratching their heads.
Most spices' names are derived directly from the plant they are made of.
Cinnamon, for example, was once cinnamon sticks. Cumin is dried cumin seeds. And ginger is made of ground ginger root.
The word 'paprika' also comes from its parent plant. But you might have to work a little harder work out its provenance.
The indirect translation comes from the Latin word for 'pepper' according to Etymonline.
So when you've sprinkled paprika onto your chicken, chili, or deviled eggs, you're really adding dried out, finely ground bell peppers.
Its bright color is thanks to the type of bell pepper used, which is often red.
The spice can add tangy, smoky, and even sweet flavors to cooking.
It is also dense in nutrients like vitamin A, capsaicin, and carotenoid antioxidants.
Vitamin A supports a healthy immune system and helps maintain good vision. Capsaicin is good for heart health, weight loss, and pain management. And carotenoid antioxidants can reduce risk of obesity, diabetes, and some types of cancer.
Recently, many people on social media have been stunned to learn the origin of their favorite spice.
One person on X posted: 'Why did I just learn that paprika is made from a red bell pepper,' accompanied by a mind-blown emoji.
Another shared the revelation and received hundreds of commenters who, likewise, had no idea.
'Okay, why did it take me 31 years of life to find out that PAPRIKA IS JUST GROUND RED BELL PEPPER?!?,' she wrote.
' seriously?!,' one person reacted.
'I refuse to accept this,' commented another.
One account, who has labeled themselves the Plant Daddy, explained further that, 'It's Capsicum annum species of which bell pepper are a cultivar, but can be other types of less hot / more sweet pepper cultivars.
'Also is smoked in some regions over oak for diff flavor, other locales also blend in hotter varieties, etc.!'
Cultivar plants, like bell pepper, are created through a selective breeding process. Through carefully controlled seed production, farmers can breed produce with the right flavors and colors to eventually make the perfect paprika.
Paprika production involves drying out ripe peppers and grinding them into a powder.
The spice typically lasts for between two and three years before it begins to lose its potency and color but is still safe to eat.
It should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry area to maximize its longevity.
Originally cultivated in central and southern America, paprika was brought to Europe in the 16th century and proliferated from there.
Today it is used in cuisines all across the world, but is particularly associated with Hungarian cooking.
