Australians ‘shocked’ after learning what paprika is made from

It’s a spice used in everything from curries to goulash. But Australians had their minds blown after finding out how this popular ingredient is made.

It’s a staple in any pantry’s spice rack, but the main ingredient of paprika has sent people into a tailspin, with some social media users claiming to have had “no idea” what it was made from.

Nutra Organics, a health and beauty brand that makes items such as bone broth and collagen powder, took to social media to discuss the red-coloured spice.

“Learning that paprika is just dried and crushed red capsicum was really shocking,” the post said. “I don't know why I thought there was a paprika tree somewhere.”

A social media post caused shock. Picture: Nutra Organics

Some followers were blindsided by the revelation.

“I had no idea and I use it all the time. Mind is blown; might not sleep tonight,” one wrote.

Another said: “I love capsicum but I absolutely hate paprika.”

“Haha we learn something every day. I had no idea either. Thanks for sharing,” someone else added.

Another said: “Like when I realised that prunes were dried plums! Where are the prune trees?”

But some pointed out that a certain type of capsicum is used in the production of the spice.

“It’s a type of capsicum. I grow them. They taste different to the capsicum we think of as capsicum. I find my family and I only really love paprika cooked. They are delicious roasted,” one person said.

Aussies ‘shocked’ at paprika ingredient discovery. Picture: iStock

Another said: “This is super misleading. It is from the capsicum family but it’s like a chilli plant, not the normal red capsicums like you put in your salad or sandwich.”

According to Enclycopedia Britannica, paprika is made using the capsicum annum varietal, which is a plant native to places such as Mexico, Central and South America as well as the West Indies.

“The species includes most of the sweet peppers and many of the pungent, strong-flavoured types,” the entry explained.

This is why the spice can come in different versions, including sweet or hot.