Paprika is simply dried and ground Capsicum annum peppers.
Different varieties are gown in different regions for their rich red color and sweet flavor. Most are grown in Hungary and Spain, California and Texas. Smoked paprika is dried over a wooden fire before grinding, hence a richer flavor. Regular paprika can be substitute for smoked paprika in these recipes.
Paprika Yogurt Dip
Makes ¾ cups (180 ml)
½ cup (120 ml) organic plain yogurt or dairy-free goat yogurt
2-4 Tbs. (30-60 ml) organic lemon juice or organic apple cider vinegar
1 chopped organic green onion
½ to 1 tsp. (2,5-5 ml) paprika
1 minced garlic clove
1. Combine all the ingredients.
2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
3. Serve with (gluten-free) crackers and/or fresh vegetables.
Paprika French Fries
Preheat oven to 450F (230C)
1 pound (455 g) organic potatoes
half organic onion, cut in large dice
2 Tbs. (30 ml) olive oil
2 tsp. (10 ml) smoked paprika or more to taste
1 tsp. (5 ml) garlic powder
1. Cut potatoes into chunks
2. Toss with the diced onions, olive oil, smoked paprika, and garlic powder.
3. Spread potatoes into a single layer on a sheet tray.
4. Roast potatoes for 35-40 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking. They should be golden and tender.
5. Serve for breakfast with eggs; with fish, meat, tofu dishes.
Paprika Roasted Asparagus
Preheat the oven to 400F (200C) (gas 6)
1 pound (455 g) asparagus, washed, dried, and hard ends cut off
1 Tbs. (15 ml) olive oil
1 tsp. (5 ml) smoked paprika or more to taste
pinch or two of black pepper and garlic powder
1 organic lemon, slice in half
1. Spread asparagus in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle with oil and prices. Toss to coast.
2. Roast until lightly browned and tender, about 10-20 minutes. Do not over cook.
3. Remove asparagus and place on a platter.
4. Squeeze one lemon half over top and serve with the other half on the platter.
Rub Paprika
Makes about ⅓ cup (80 ml)
Refrigerate an hour.
4 Tbs. (60 ml) olive oil
1 Tbs. (15 ml) each: paprika and chili powder
2 tsp. (10 ml) cumin
1 tsp. (5 ml) each: onion powder and cayenne
½ tsp. (2,5 ml) garlic powder
1. Mix all ingredients together.
2. Rub into meats, poultry, or vegetables.
3. Refrigerate for one hour before grilling.
P.S. Cooking with Paprika
- Key ingredient in Hungarian goulash, chicken paprikash, Indian tandoori chicken and chorizo
- Many Portuguese and Turkish recipes rely upon paprika
- Use with cabbage, potatoes, and other vegetables.
- Sprinkle in tomato sauces, chili, coups, and stews.
- Add to breading for chicken or fish.
- Include in paellas and grain dishes.
- Stir into cheese spreads, or combo with yogurt and a little olive oil for a appetizer dip.
- Use with oil and vinegar for dressings.
- Sprinkle on potatoes or other vegetables before roasting.
- Add some cayenne to boost the heat of your paprika.
