02.11.2018
Paprika vs. Chili Powder Comparison
Learn how paprika and chili powder differ in flavor, heat and use. Tips on substitution, blends, buying and storing for best results.
- Paprika is usually a single ground pepper variety; chili powder is a spice blend that often includes other spices like cumin and garlic.
- Heat and flavor vary: many paprikas are mild or smoked, while chili powder heat depends on the chiles in the mix.
- Use paprika for color and mild sweet or smoky notes; use chili powder for chili, Tex-Mex, rubs and recipes that need a spiced blend.
What is the difference between paprika vs. chili powder?
The main difference between paprika and chili powder is paprika is a singular chile while chili powder is often a combination of chiles as well as other ingredients such as cumin and garlic powder.
The Spice House has some in-depth spotlight articles on both paprika and chili powder if you want to learn more about the origins, varieties and recipes for these spices.
What are good recipes for chili powder?
Chili powder is found in many southwest dishes but is found in almost all chili recipes. We have some fantastic crowd-pleasing chili recipes including “Mike’s Dark Side Chili Recipe” and this “Nine-Spice Chili.” Let us know in the comments if you try either of these!
Where can I learn more about chili powder?
To learn more about chili powder check out this spice spotlight article that walks through the sometimes confusing nomenclature as well as some of our favorite chili recipes and an interview with expert Warren Fowler.Where to buy chili powder online
The Spice House carries mild, medium and hot varieties of chili powder - all available online!Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between paprika and chili powder?
Paprika is usually a single ground pepper variety, such as sweet, hot or smoked paprika. Chili powder is generally a blend of ground chiles plus other seasonings like cumin, garlic powder and oregano. That makes chili powder more complex in flavor.
Can I substitute paprika for chili powder and vice versa?
You can substitute in a pinch, but expect different results. Using paprika instead of chili powder will reduce complexity and heat. Using chili powder instead of paprika will add cumin and garlic notes and possibly more heat. Start with a half amount and adjust to taste.
Which one is hotter, paprika or chili powder?
It depends. Many paprikas are mild unless labeled hot. Chili powder heat depends on the types and amounts of chiles in the blend. Always check the label or taste a small amount first.
What dishes are best for each spice?
Use paprika for color and mild smoky or sweet flavor in stews, roasted vegetables, deviled eggs and Hungarian dishes. Use chili powder for chili, taco seasoning, Tex-Mex dishes, rubs and any recipe that benefits from a spiced chile blend.
How can I make my own chili powder?
Mix ground dried chiles like ancho, guajillo or cayenne with spices such as ground cumin, garlic powder and dried oregano. A simple starting ratio is 3 parts ground chiles to 1 part cumin and 1 part garlic powder, then adjust for heat and flavor.
How do I choose mild, medium or hot chili powder?
Consider the dish and your audience. Mild works for stews and kids. Medium is good for general use. Hot is best when you want a clear spicy kick. You can blend to suit your taste by mixing mild and hot powders.
How should I store paprika and chili powder and how long do they last?
Keep both in airtight containers away from heat and light. Ground spices keep best for 6 to 12 months for full potency. Smoked or bright red paprikas may fade sooner. Whole dried chiles last longer if you grind them as needed.
What is the main difference between paprika and chili powder?
Paprika is usually a single ground pepper variety, such as sweet, hot or smoked paprika. Chili powder is generally a blend of ground chiles plus other seasonings like cumin, garlic powder and oregano. That makes chili powder more complex in flavor.
Can I substitute paprika for chili powder and vice versa?
You can substitute in a pinch, but expect different results. Using paprika instead of chili powder will reduce complexity and heat. Using chili powder instead of paprika will add cumin and garlic notes and possibly more heat. Start with a half amount and adjust to taste.
Which one is hotter, paprika or chili powder?
It depends. Many paprikas are mild unless labeled hot. Chili powder heat depends on the types and amounts of chiles in the blend. Always check the label or taste a small amount first.
What dishes are best for each spice?
Use paprika for color and mild smoky or sweet flavor in stews, roasted vegetables, deviled eggs and Hungarian dishes. Use chili powder for chili, taco seasoning, Tex-Mex dishes, rubs and any recipe that benefits from a spiced chile blend.
How can I make my own chili powder?
Mix ground dried chiles like ancho, guajillo or cayenne with spices such as ground cumin, garlic powder and dried oregano. A simple starting ratio is 3 parts ground chiles to 1 part cumin and 1 part garlic powder, then adjust for heat and flavor.
How do I choose mild, medium or hot chili powder?
Consider the dish and your audience. Mild works for stews and kids. Medium is good for general use. Hot is best when you want a clear spicy kick. You can blend to suit your taste by mixing mild and hot powders.
How should I store paprika and chili powder and how long do they last?
Keep both in airtight containers away from heat and light. Ground spices keep best for 6 to 12 months for full potency. Smoked or bright red paprikas may fade sooner. Whole dried chiles last longer if you grind them as needed.
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