Chili Peppers and Paprika

Written by Lee Wyatt (last updated May 22, 2020)

Technically speaking, capsicums (or Genus Capscicum), or as they are more commonly known chili peppers, does not belong in the same specific category as other kinds of herbs and spices. The reason for this is rather simple, capsicums in general do not have any aromatic oils like the other spices and herbs do. Rather this family of peppers rely on something completely different for their effect and flavor. What they rely on is more a chemical reaction that stings and irritates the skin in the mouth and nose. These peppers range in potency from slightly sweet, to being so hot that some can only be handled while wearing gloves. Technically the hottest part of the of the chili isn't the skin, but rather the seed that is inside of it.

There are some benefits from using a hot pepper in your cooking. The largest one is that it will stimulate the flow of saliva in the mouth, as well as getting the gastric juices flowing which will help aid in digestion. Another benefit is that if you are in a hot area, try eating a hot pepper. The pepper will make you sweat a little, which will help you to cool off in the long run. There is a draw back to using capsicums though, the do not work well on their own, which is why you will find other ingredients included in chili powders such as red pepper, oregano, garlic, and so on.

One of the more commonly used types of capsicum is paprika. Paprika (also known as Capsicum annum) is actually the ground, dried, and stemless pod of a mild capsicum. Paprika was first found growing in Central America, but currently the world's most delicious paprika is grown in Hungary. The kind that most people use in the United States is grown in Spain, and actually tastes quite harsh when compared to the Hungarian strain.

Another interesting fact about paprika is that it contains something called bioflavonoids, which is also found in citrus and other fruits. This substance has been found to be beneficial to the capillary system. Interestingly enough, paprika actually contains an astounding amount of vitamin C, possibly even more than an orange.

When using paprika in cooking, care needs to be taken. The reason for this is that paprika has a powerful enough taste that as little as half a teaspoon can affect the entire taste of a dish. That being said, if you are looking to use paprika to decorate something, then don't worry. When sprinkled on a dish, such as deviled eggs, its flavor will not overpower, but rather help to enhance what you are eating.

Author Bio

Lee Wyatt

Contributor of numerous Tips.Net articles, Lee Wyatt is quickly becoming a regular "Jack of all trades." He is currently an independent contractor specializing in writing and editing. Contact him today for all of your writing and editing needs! Click here to contact. ...

MORE FROM LEE

Removing Tar from Your Car

Tar from road work and construction is an annoying and sometimes costly hazard to your car. Here are a couple of simple ...

Discover More

French Press Coffee Maker

There are all kinds of different ways may have heard about French Press coffee makers. Maybe you heard about them from ...

Discover More

Cleaning Ceiling Light Fixtures

Everyone knows that you need to clean your lamps, lights, and other type of fixtures. After all, if you don't you can ...

Discover More
More Cooking Tips

Nutmeg

Nutmeg is somewhat of a unique spice. To learn a little more about this fantastic ingredient, then read on! You will find ...

Discover More

What is Basil?

Basil, or Ocimum basilicum, can be found in many areas of our everyday lives. In fact, this wonderful little herb has ...

Discover More

Using Anise

Anise can be used for a variety of purposes from culinary to medicinal uses. To find out all about the many different ...

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 9 - 0?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)