Paprika peppers are used to add color and spice to dishes.
Used most commonly as a garnishment to add color to dishes, the spice paprika comes from the pepper plant. Originally paprika peppers were spicy, but milder varieties have evolved. Hungary grows six types or classes of paprika peppers ranging in size and shape and in spiciness, from hot to delicate, according to the Food Reference website.
Characteristics
Capsicum annuum, the scientific name for the source of paprika, is a deep or bright red pepper less spicy than other chili peppers. Region and cultivation determine the size of the plant, according to the Professor's House website. Although the fruit is mostly uniform between types, shape ranges from conical to rounded. Coloring and flavor of the fruit remains the same from type to type. The plant itself possesses dense branches and grows to approximately 2 to 4 feet in height. Paprika pepper plants produce white flowers that ripen into fruit. Of the pepper plants, the paprika is the mildest of the chili varieties.
Uses in Cooking
Only released when heated, the flavor of paprika is not apparent when simply used as a garnish for added color. Garnish salads, hard-boiled or deviled eggs and appetizers such as cheese dips and spreads with paprika to add a dash of color. Use paprika to season mellow-flavored vegetables such as squash and zucchini. Hungarians liberally use paprika in traditional recipes such as goulash and chicken paprikash. Sometimes used in India in the tandoori chicken dish, paprika gives it a red color. Turkish, Spanish and Portuguese recipes use paprika in stews, casserole and soups. Use paprika as a rub on meats, fish and poultry.
Health Benefits
Paprika is a good source of phytochemical betacarotene, beneficial to the eyes and easily absorbed by the body, according to the Professor's House website. As a member of the capsicum family, paprika use includes as a natural laxative, anesthetic and anti-inflammatory. Herbalists believe paprika peppers aid in circulation and contain antioxidants which fight against inflammatory diseases such as cancer or heart disease. Consult with a certified health professional or physician before taking any herb supplement.
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