Smoked paprika, also known as pimentón or Spanish paprika, is a spice made from smoked and dried red peppers. It has a rich, smoky flavor that can add a unique taste to many dishes. But what spices complement and enhance the flavor of smoked paprika?
Smoked Paprika’s Flavor Profile
Before we look at spice pairings, let’s examine the flavor profile of smoked paprika. The smoking process gives the paprika a deep, earthy flavor reminiscent of grilled or charred foods. The red peppers used lend it a hint of sweetness and fruitiness as well. There are three main types of smoked paprika:
- Sweet smoked paprika – Made from sweet red peppers and has a mild smokiness.
- Semi-sweet smoked paprika – A balance between sweet and hot.
- Hot smoked paprika – Made from spicy peppers and brings more heat.
In general, smoked paprika provides a background of rich smokiness along with notes of peppers that can range from sweet to spicy-hot. This unique flavor profile means certain other spices can accentuate and build on those flavors.
Warm, Earthy Spices
Spices that mirror the warm, earthy notes in smoked paprika are great complements. Here are some excellent options:
- Cumin – Cumin is another spice with an earthy, smoky flavor. A dash of cumin powder or cumin seeds can accentuate the smoke in paprika.
- Chili powder – Chili powders made from ancho, chipotle or other smoked chilies taste excellent with smoked paprika. The blend of spices and smoky chilies enhances similar flavors.
- Mustard powder – Prepared mustard contains paprika, so dry mustard powder has a natural affinity. The subtle spiciness pairs nicely.
- Curry powder – Sweet paprika is an ingredient in some curry powders. The blend of earthy spices like coriander, turmeric and cumin complement it well.
- Miso – This fermented soybean paste has an umami, salty flavor that accents the savoriness of smoked paprika.
- Garlic and onion powder – These cooked, dried alliums have a rich earthiness that works with smoked paprika’s flavors.
Spicy and Fruity Spices
Since different types of smoked paprika range from sweet to hot, spices with those taste profiles can enhance the flavors. Here are complementary spicy and fruity options:
- Chili flakes – Sprinkling on some crushed red pepper flakes boosts the heat level of hot smoked paprika.
- Cayenne – This ground hot chili adds a similar punch of spiciness to play up the peppers in some paprikas.
- Peppercorns – Black, white or green cracked peppercorns give a fresh peppery spike.
- Ginger – Ground ginger has a sweet heat that accents the red pepper notes.
- Cinnamon – A sprinkle of cinnamon boosts the sweetness in sweet smoked paprika.
- Allspice – The dried berry flavor of allspice enhances fruity overtones in paprika.
- Cloves – This sweet, strong spice complements sweeter paprika varieties.
Herbal Spices
Fresh, aromatic herbs also pair nicely with smoked paprika’s flavor profile:
- Oregano – The earthy, woodsy notes in oregano leaves or powder blend well with smoky paprika.
- Rosemary – Similar to oregano, rosemary’s pine-like aroma and taste complement the charred flavor.
- Thyme – This herb’s distinctive taste and smell boosts savory aspects of smoked paprika.
- Sage – Sage is another herb that naturally accompanies the bold seasoning of this paprika.
- Marjoram – Sweet marjoram has a delicate flavor that contrasts with paprika’s smokiness.
- Lavender – The floral aroma and taste of dried lavender buds enhance sweet smoked paprika.
Savory Spices
Some spices evoke umami or other savory flavors that meld well with smoked paprika:
- Nutmeg – A touch of nutmeg’s warm, slightly sweet taste adds depth.
- Caraway – The anise-like flavor of caraway seeds pairs nicely.
- Tarragon – Licorice-y dried tarragon accents the sweetness in some paprikas.
- Savory – The peppery flavor of savory seasoning accentuates paprika’s qualities.
- Parsley – Fresh or dried parsley flakes lend an herbal savoriness.
Flavor Affinity in Dishes
Beyond using complementary spices, think about how smoked paprika fits into a dish’s overall flavors. It most commonly enhances savory foods like meats, vegetables, grains and legumes. Here are some tasty examples of entrée and side dishes featuring smoked paprika:
Smoked Paprika Meat Rub
- Smoked paprika
- Brown sugar
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Garlic powder
- Salt
- Pepper
Rub this spice mix on pork, beef or chicken before grilling or roasting. The blend of sweet, savory and spicy flavors complement the smoke in paprika beautifully.
Smoky Hummus
- Chickpeas
- Tahini
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Olive oil
- Smoked paprika
- Cumin
Stir smoked paprika and a pinch of cumin into hummus for a tasty, smoky dip or spread perfect with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
Smoked Paprika Potato Salad
- Potatoes
- Hard-boiled eggs
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Chopped dill pickles
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
Add a teaspoon or two of smoked paprika to potato salad along with other seasonings for fantastic flavor in this classic summer side.
Shakshuka with Smoked Paprika
- Onions
- Bell peppers
- Tomatoes
- Garlic
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Eggs
- Feta cheese
This Middle Eastern dish of eggs poached in a spiced tomato sauce tastes amazing with a dose of sweet smoked paprika stirred in.
Smoked Paprika Drink Recipes
You can even use smoked paprika to add interest and intrigue to beverages. A small amount adds color and a subtle smoky taste. Try making these tasty paprika drink recipes:
Smoked Paprika Bloody Mary
- Vodka
- Tomato juice
- Lemon juice
- Worcestershire sauce
- Horseradish
- Smoked paprika
- Salt
- Pepper
- Celery stalk
Rim the glass with smoked paprika for a savory, spicy Bloody Mary cocktail.
Paprika Hot Chocolate
- Milk
- Dark chocolate
- Sugar
- Smoked paprika
- Cayenne pepper
Stir a pinch of smoked paprika and cayenne into decadent homemade hot chocolate for warmth with a kick.
Conclusion
Smoked paprika boasts a unique smoky, sweet, spicy flavor. Many spices complement and enhance those taste sensations. Warm, earthy spices like cumin, mustard powder and garlic blend well. Spicy and fruity seasonings such as chili flakes, cinnamon and cloves accentuate different flavor aspects. Fresh herbs including oregano, thyme and sage also pair nicely. For delicious smoked paprika dishes, rub on meats, mix into dips and potatoes, or add to egg dishes and beverages.
With its distinctive flavor profile, smoked paprika makes an excellent addition to spice racks. Understanding suitable spice pairings allows you to use this special paprika to its full potential. Next time a recipe calls for regular paprika, try substituting with smoked paprika. Then build on those smoky flavors by experimenting with complementary seasonings. The possibilities for enhanced taste in your cooking are endless!