Herbs & Spices

Smoked Paprika

Health
ScoreA+

Smoked paprika is sweet red pepper dried over oak smoke and ground, carrying paprika's rich carotenoid and vitamin-E profile plus a deep smoky aroma.

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Why Smoked Paprika scores 95

Nutrient density30

Protein quality10

Fiber content10

Healthy fats4

Bioactive compounds14

Glycemic impact10

Top nutrients

% Daily Value per a pinch (2 g)

Vitamin E 3.9%Vitamin B6 2.5%Iron 2.3%Riboflavin 1.9%Copper 1.6%

Nutrition

per_100g

282

Calories

14.1g

Protein

54g

Carbs

12.9g

Fat

34.9g

Fiber

Health benefits

Supports eye and macular health

moderate evidence

Zeaxanthin and beta-carotene accumulate in the macula to filter blue light and quench reactive oxygen species, while provitamin-A carotenoids supply retinal for vision

Delivers potent fat-soluble antioxidant defense

strong evidence

Capsanthin, capsorubin and high vitamin E interrupt lipid peroxidation in membranes and lipoproteins, reducing oxidative stress

Supports cardiovascular function

moderate evidence

Carotenoid and tocopherol antioxidants limit LDL oxidation while abundant potassium supports healthy blood pressure regulation

Supports skin and immune health

moderate evidence

Provitamin-A carotenoids provide retinoids required for epithelial cell turnover and normal immune function, reinforcing skin and mucosal barriers

Pairs well with

·Pair with olive oil or other fat because smoked paprika's carotenoids and vitamin E require lipids for absorption
·Use with beans, lentils and stews because its smoky depth mimics cured meat while adding plant-based carotenoid antioxidants
·Combine with vitamin-C-rich peppers or citrus because vitamin C regenerates oxidized vitamin E for prolonged antioxidant action

Practical tips

·Best timing: The carotenoids and vitamin E have no circadian dependency and are best taken regularly with fat-containing meals for absorption.
·Bloom in warm oil to release the carotenoids and bloom the smoky aroma without scorching the delicate pigments
·Use sparingly at first; the smoke flavor is concentrated and can dominate a dish
·Store in a cool, dark, airtight jar to slow carotenoid fading and aroma loss
·Choose pimenton de la Vera (dulce, agridulce or picante) for authentic oak-smoked depth