Organic Hungarian Paprika and Spices

Organic Hungarian Paprika and Spices: History

First brought to Hungary in the 16th century by Turkish soldiers, paprika was initially used as an herbal antidote for malaria. The Hungarian soil and long, warm summers were quickly found to be an ideal breeding ground for the husks that are later dried, sliced and pulverized into the spice. Hungarians lost no time in working paprika into nearly all their traditional dishes and today paprika is considered the country’s national spice.

Cultivating Organic Paprika

Traditionally, paprika husks are collected by hand. After drying and slicing, they are stored in a cool, dark place until pulverization. The best Hungarian paprika is ground three times, then packed right away. To be certified organic, the spice must be cultivated without the use of chemicals or any plant protection. Further, on packing, there must be no added ingredients or preservatives.

Cooking With Hungarian Paprika

Whether the sweet or half-sharp variety, organic Hungarian paprika and spices are not just for color, they also add a distinct pepper-like flavor without the intensity of heat found in peppers. A goulash would not be a goulash without paprika, and of course there would be no such dish as a paprikash without it. Deviled eggs get their devilish quality from the spice and it is also widely used with chicken dishes and cheese spreads.

If you’re unaccustomed to using paprika, it’s best to start slowly with a small pinch and see how you like it. A dash here and there is usually all that’s needed to give a hint of extra flavor.

Buying and Storing

To purchase certified organic Hungarian paprika and spices, you are best off shopping in a health food store or grocery store like Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s. You can also buy spices online. One nice source is Amelie Michel, which offers artisan spices from the Falls Brook Organic Farm. A 2-ounce airtight tin of paprika is $12.

Still organic but less artisan is the paprika offered by Ecrater, which is $10.50 for a 6-ounce container with no additional taxes or shipping fees. However, bear in mind that six ounces is a lot of paprika, so unless you make goulash and other dishes that benefit from warmth and a bit of red color, you might be better off with a smaller container.

The lack of preservatives and additives in organic paprika are beneficial for health and well-being, but it does cut into the spice’s shelf life. It should be stored in a cool and dry cupboard and kept from exposure to any strong light, especially sunlight. Although this can be difficult to manage on a spice rack, try to avoid storing it next to any strong-smelling substances. This helps it retain its unique warmth and flavor. While it’s recommended that you use organic spices within six months of purchase, if properly stored they should continue to pack their punch for as long as eighteen months and possibly even longer. Let your nose be your guide as to when they should be replaced.

Other Uses for Paprika

Organic paprika is an excellent exfoliator and revitalizer for all but the most sensitive skin. Eminence Organics, a handmade organic skin care company from Hungary, features paprika in many of its products. As it adds warmth to a dish, so does it stimulate skin for a healthy complexion. Try mixing some paprika and cinnamon into organic yogurt with another cooling ingredient like peaches or papaya for a mask that can wake up tired, dull skin.

As with any homemade skincare regimen, be sure to do a patch test under your jaw first. If after 24 hours there are no ill effects, you can happily start incorporating paprika into your facials and cleansing routine, as well as your diet.