Learn about: Spanish smoked paprika

Spanish smoked paprika is a vibrant red spice made from ground dried pimentos (a sweet variety of capsicum commonly grown in Spain). These peppers are smoked over oak before being flaked or ground into a powder. Smoked paprika has a distinctive smoky, warm, spice flavour – completely different from the more earthy tasting Hungarian paprika. Smoked paprika taste is akin to the smoky level of smoked bacon, so it’s an excellent seasoning to give oomph to vegetarian dishes as well. A teaspoon or two adds layers of taste and depth to many simple dishes such as soups, stews, marinades, dips and dressings, lifting these to new levels of richness and flavour. Once you discover the versatility of this tasty spice you’ll find yourself adding it to just about everything.