Bell peppers belong to the same nightshade (or Solanaceae) plant family as tomatoes, eggplants, potatoes, and chili peppers. The peppers in this nightshade plant family are scientifically classified as Capsicum annuum, and this is applied to both the sweet (like bell peppers) and hot peppers (like jalapeños and cayenne) varieties in this particular plant family. There are many different cultivars of Capsicum, or peppers, which are classified under different species names. For example, the habanero chile is categorized under the Capsicum chinense.
On the other hand, is chili powder and paprika the same? Not quite. Chili powder is a blend of spices, predominantly ground chili peppers, complemented by garlic powder, cumin, and sometimes oregano. Its use is pivotal in chili con carne, tacos, and meat rubs. The components of chili powder can vary, offering a spectrum of flavors from mild to intensely spicy.
A common Middle Eastern spice, Aleppo chili powder is used to season meat, salads, sauces, and dips. Basically, you can use it as you would any type of paprika. Another notable similarity is their heat. Aleppo has moderate to medium heat with a salty and earthy flavor. But since it’s salty, this swap should not be one is to one. We suggest starting with ¼ teaspoon and gradually adding more to taste.
Turmeric has been used by humans for nearly four thousand years. For thousands of years, it has been used as a dye, as a cooking spice, and as a material used in medicine. Sanskrit texts of its use as a spice date back to ancient Indian times. The name Turmeric comes from the Latin Terra merita because its roots, when ground, are golden. The spice is made from the turmeric (Curcuma longa) plant in the ginger family. Turmeric is grown for its stems. The stem is dried and ground into a yellow powder with the bitter sweet taste we know and love.
According to theHuy Fong Food website, sriracha is made with sun-ripened chilies that have been pureed into a smooth paste. The other ingredients include sugar, salt, garlic, and vinegar. It also containsxanthan gum, an ingredient that is used as a thickener or even a stabilizer. It’s an ingredient used widely in many different kinds of food, especially sauces and dressings, and is used as a binder and provides the structure for gluten-free food or food that doesn’t contain wheat flour.