Prepare to have your minds blown as a viral Instagram post revealed where paprika seasoning actually comes from – and people are absolutely torn. So did you know?
It’s safe to say most households will have a designated spice corner.
Of course the main pots of seasoning you’d have are salt, pepper, chilli flakes, herbs and maybe even some chicken flavouring. One thing for sure is that paprika is a firm favourite when it comes to spicing up your food.
It even comes with many health benefits, including carotenoids which could help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. Its vitamin C can help boost your immune system and paprika could also contribute to good vision.
Now in addition to all its major pros, have you ever thought where paprika actually came from? The news might just blow your mind after one Instagram post revealed paprika spice is made from crushed red bell peppers.
In the post, Paul Avellino, who boasts 300,000 followers, revealed a photo which said: “Learning that paprika is just dried and crushed red bell peppers was really shocking. Like I don’t know why I thought there was a paprika tree somewhere.”
Paul also accompanied the revelation with a lengthy caption which read: “Ever wonder how paprika ends up in your spice rack? Paprika starts with peppers – most often a mix of sweet and hot peppers.
“Once harvested, the peppers are dried, either naturally in the sun or with heat, and then ground into that vibrant red powder we all know. The secret to its flavour lies in the process.
“Smoking the peppers before drying gives us smoky paprika, while hot paprika gets its kick from spicier pepper varieties. And that mild, sweet paprika? It’s made from peppers with low capsaicin content.
“From garnishing devilled eggs to adding depth to stews, paprika doesn’t just season – it tells the story of the peppers it came from. So next time you sprinkle some over your dish, remember: you’re adding a little bit of sun, earth, and tradition to your meal.”
Paprika’s common variety is the tomato pepper, but it can be made from other types of capsicum annuum peppers, like sweet bell peppers, chilli peppers or cayenne peppers. The seasoning can come with varying levels of heat, depending on the pepper used.
The capsicum annuum plant originated in Central Mexico and was brought to Spain in the 16th century. Since the revelation was shared on Instagram – it’s safe to say many people were shocked too.
One said: “Did you know that red pepper jelly is made from red peppers? Learn something new every day.” While another added: “I didn’t know that either.” And a third commented: “Wait what?” Someone else admitted: “That’s odd as I cant stand red peppers.”