Paprika – Spice of the Month

Paprika, as far as we know, was first grown and used in Spain although it is also said that it was brought to Spain by Columbus from the Americas.    Paprika is actually a quite good source of Vitamin C.

Apparently Hungarians eat about 2 pounds of paprika each per year!

Paprika is used for its colour.  The flavour is quite mild compared to cayenne pepper.  Not all paprikas are equal – there are different grades of heat, different shades of colour and sweet or smoked.  You can also divide paprika up into 3 groups – Hungarian, Spanish and the rest.

Try it with shellfish.  Add it to dips like hummus.  Try adding it to cole slaw or potato salad. The flavour of paprika only really emerges with heat.  Add it to your onions and garlic once they have softened.  Then the paprika is less likely to burn.

You can also sprinkle paprika on top of dishes as a little garnish – not with too heavy a hand though!

When you are buying paprika try to find it in a glass jar so you can check that the colour is bright.  It will deteriorate with time so be strong and replace any that has sat around for too long.

Try – sprinkling paprika over cheese on toast.  Add it to tomato paste or passata when making a stew.  Make your own paprika oil by mixing it with olive oil and leaving it to stand.

MY Recipes using paprika  - Simple Jambalaya, Steak on Buttered Leeks, Ribs, Chicken Tenders with a hint of Curry, Beef Stroganoff,  Garlicky Crumbed Broccoli,

BIBLIOGRAPHY - with thanks to Auckland Libraries

Cook's Encyclopaedia of Spices by Sallie Morris & Lesley Mackley

Discovering Vegetables, Herbs & Spices by Susanna Lyle

Spice Market by Jane Lawson

Spicery by Ian & Elizabeth Hemphill

Spices & Natural Flavourings by Jennifer Mulherin

Spices by Sophie Grigson

Spices Condiments and Seasonings by Kenneth T Farrell

Spices, Salt and Aromatics in the English Kitchen by Elizabeth David

The Cook's Companion by Stephanie Alexander