Paprike/Cayenne

[warpig1]

Probably a stupid question but what is the difference between paprika and cayenne and when should I use one rather that the other. I know cayenne is hotish but then I find paprika also a little spicy(hot) too.

Thanks
warpig1

[Clanad]

Although differing varieties of each can taste quite a bit the same, generally Paprika is much milder at around 500 scoville units. Cayenne is in the 30,000 to 50,000 scoville units... Cayenne is a rather hot chile pepper 2 -5 " long, whereas Paprika is ground from sweet and hot dried peppers and is never fiery, just mild and sweet. (I've found some varities of Paprika to be somewhat hot though)

[warpig1]

thanks Clanad, so for a rule of thumb would it be fair to say - use cayenne when I wanted chillies, and paprika when i wanted bell peppers?

[BBWCHATT]

Warpig - you just HAVE to try Smoked Sweet Paprika if you haven't already - delicious on chicken or potatoes or boiled eggs/egg salad/deviled eggs, etc. I always buy the sweet paprika insteat of the hot paprika. If I want hot I use cayenne or some kind of hot sauce, etc.

[Clanad]

I think that'd be a fair comparison, warpig1, although the paprika is going to impart a more sweetish flavor than even mild cayenne... But if your looking for any bite then go with the cayenne... Good luck, by the way...

[heathfield]

Re. paprika - Benny Green used to refer to British Rail cheese and lettuce sandwiches 'lightly dusted with brick'! :-)

[warpig1]

oh, think I have had that sandwich!