Paprika: A Spice with a Thousand Facets
Paprika, with its vibrant red hue and captivating aroma, is much more than just a spice. Used worldwide, it seduces with its sweetness, warmth, and subtle nuances, ranging from sweet to smoky. At Lokayah , we have selected exceptional paprikas, sourced using artisanal farming practices, to honor the origin, human gestures, and richness of flavor.
Origin and History of Paprika
Paprika comes from the ripe, dried fruit of certain sweet peppers ( Capsicum annuum ), a plant native to Central and South America. Introduced to Europe in the 16th century following the great explorations, it was first used as an ornamental plant before becoming a key ingredient in popular cuisine.
It is in Hungary , in the village of Fajsz , that the paprika we offer you is cultivated. There, Dora , a passionate farm manager, represents the fourth generation of a line of producers. She grew up in step with the harvests, inheriting precise gestures, a sharp eye for quality, and an intimate knowledge of the plant.
Dora, farmer and guardian of know-how
Smiling, demanding and fully invested, Dora ensures that each harvest produces a remarkable sweet paprika , renowned for its finesse and depth. Throughout the year, she works the land with respect, and each fruit is harvested by hand, ripened naturally, then patiently dried using traditional methods.
A gentle and lively terroir
In Fajsz , a small village in southern Hungary near the Danube , the conditions for paprika are ideal: a mild climate, fertile soil and abundant light. It is a peaceful place, between the river and the open sky, where cultivation follows the rhythm of the seasons.
Every year in September , the harvest begins. The peppers are hand-picked, left to mature for six weeks, and then manually sorted to remove the stems. None of the processes are automated: here, everything relies on human touch .
👉 Discover our sweet paprika from Fajsz
Health benefits
Paprika isn't just a colorful and flavorful spice—it's packed with natural compounds that benefit the body. Derived from dried and ground varieties of sweet chili peppers, it's packed with several essential nutrients.
Rich in antioxidants
Paprika contains powerful natural antioxidants, including carotenoids like zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta-carotene, as well as vitamin E. These compounds help fight oxidative stress, protect cells from premature aging, and support overall health.
Source of vitamin A
Very rich in provitamin A (beta-carotene) , paprika contributes to skin health , night vision and the proper functioning of the immune system .
Anti-inflammatory properties
Paprika contains a small amount of capsaicin , a molecule known for its natural anti-inflammatory effects. It helps soothe certain joint and muscle pains by stimulating blood circulation.
Stimulates digestion
By promoting the production of saliva and gastric juices, paprika helps improve digestion . It is particularly useful in rich dishes, where it supports digestive comfort without harming the stomach.
👉 Source: Passport Santé
How to use paprika in cooking?
At Lokayah, we like to say that paprika provides heat without fire . It's a mild yet powerful spice that transforms a simple recipe into a memorable dish.
Ideas for use:
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In stews: tagines, stews, lentils or beans.
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With roasted vegetables: sweet potatoes, carrots, cauliflower or eggplant.
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In marinades: with olive oil, lemon, garlic and a little honey.
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On eggs: A sprinkle on a fried egg or in a shakshuka makes all the difference.
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As a finishing touch: on soup, hummus or white sauce.
In the world's cuisine:
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Hungarian goulash: a must-try with sweet and hot paprika
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Spanish chorizo: flavored with smoked paprika
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Moroccan tagines: a touch of sweet paprika balances the ras el hanout
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Turkish kebabs: marinated with paprika and dried herbs
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Sautéed potatoes: seasoned with smoked paprika for a rustic touch
👉 See our recipes using paprika
The different varieties of paprika
There are several types of paprika, each with distinct flavor profiles and uses:
Sweet paprika
The most classic, slightly sweet, without heat. Ideal for sauces, white meats and stews.
Hot paprika
Contains slightly more capsaicin. It provides a warming sensation, without being hot. Excellent for enhancing dishes without overpowering them.
Smoked paprika ( Pimentón )
Slowly dried in oak wood, it brings deep, woody notes , perfect for vegetarian dishes, barbecues, sauces, etc.
👉 Discover our artisanal smoked paprika
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is paprika hot?
Not always! Mild paprika doesn't have any heat at all, while hot paprika can be slightly hot. Smoked paprika is mostly aromatic.
Can it be used in desserts?
Yes, in very small doses in dark chocolate ganaches, or sweet and salty shortbread.
How to store paprika?
Store away from light in an airtight container. Avoid humidity and heat. It retains its qualities for 1 year.
How much should I use?
Start with ½ tsp per dish. Adjust to your taste!
In conclusion
Paprika is a rich, generous, and surprisingly versatile spice. It connects the history of peoples, the seasons of the earth, and the warmth of a shared meal.
At Lokayah , we select our paprika for its aromatic quality , but also for the human story it tells. Each pinch you add to your dishes is a tribute to the expertise of those who cultivate it.
