The intensely rich, prominently red and slightly smoky, aromatic paprika powder is the secret spice that adds a hint of flavour to many continental recipes from western nations.
But did you know this tasty seasoning can easily be incorporated into routine desi dishes such as dals, soups, sambhars and bhartas too?
Yes, the mellow sweetness of paprika powder combined with an alluring crimson colour, when infused into traditional Indian recipes, suffuses an enhanced zest, making them all the more appetizing.
Paprika powder, although a relatively newer addition to the spice racks in kitchen cabinets of India, is rather a familiar seasoning in many countries in the West, not only for its tempting taste but also the high nutrient value and several health benefits it offers.
Read on, to know more about how paprika powder is prepared and its marvellous incentives for physical and mental wellbeing.
How Is Paprika Powder Made?
Paprika powder is obtained by crushing dried capsicum fruits (bell peppers) into a fine blend, for smooth-textured red dust.
The sweeter tasting variants of the Capsicum annum plant are used in making paprika powder. They are either sun-dried or dehumidified in processing units, to remove all moisture content. These desiccated fruits are then pounded to extract a refined residue known as paprika powder.
Paprika powder is available in distinct shades of red, depending on increasing levels of piquancy, in many European nations, ranging from mildly-flavoured light orange to medium spicy vivid red and fiery hot yellowish-brown.
Nutritional Value Of Paprika Powder:
The nutritional profile of paprika powder is indeed impressive, as this fiery condiment is very low in calories and completely devoid of sodium and cholesterol. It also contains no saturated fats and is laden with vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6 and vitamin E, which have valuable therapeutic and antioxidant properties.
Paprika is also proficient in vital minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorous and zinc. Furthermore, it is overflowing with the goodness of beneficial cytoprotective polyphenolic compounds like flavonoids, catechins, rutin, tannins and anthocyanins. Also Read: 5 Essential Antioxidants To Add To Regular Diet For Enhanced Overall Health
Health Benefits Of Paprika Powder:
Promotes Digestion
Paprika possesses significant stimulant properties, that can trigger stomach acid secretions, regulating appetite and thereby, reducing untimely cravings for junk food. By promptly enabling salivary glands to digest food, paprika aids in preventing obesity and diabetes. Furthermore, it facilitates the movement of processed and unprocessed food particles through the gut, reducing the occurrence of constipation. Paprika also decreases the chances of intestinal disorders like inflammatory bowel disease and ulcerative colitis.
Bolsters Defense Functions
Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant, is present in noteworthy quantities in paprika and it plays a key role in ensuring optimal immunity in the body. Paprika also provides the potent antioxidant rutin, which inherently holds anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial activity, thus aiding in combating infections. Adding a pinch of paprika powder to staple dishes like dal and soups can greatly boost the system’s defence mechanism and keep cough, cold and fever at bay.
Heals And Enhances Skin
Paprika is imbued with ample amounts of the crucial trace mineral zinc, which is involved in collagen synthesis and therefore assists in wound healing of damaged tissues. In addition, paprika also provides powerful antioxidants known as catechins that are highly effective in slowing down ageing and rejuvenating the texture of the skin. Moreover, the presence of beta carotene in this spice minimizes the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and age spots, to confer youthful, glowing and super-smooth skin.
Strengthens Bones
Intrinsically loaded with phosphorous, the trace mineral essential for maintaining bone shape and rigidity, paprika powder fortifies the connective tissues in the body. A regular intake of a dash of this spice in the diet also prevents severe bone ailments like osteoporosis and arthritis. Phosphorous also controls the calcium absorption in teeth tissues, hence reinforcing gums and jawbones. Also Read: Tremendous Calcium Boosters: Refreshing Smoothie Recipes For Healthy Bones And Joints
Shields Nervous System
The potent plant-based antioxidants in paprika confer some beneficial neuroprotective traits to the brain cells in the body. The anthocyanin class of phenolic compounds protect the neurons – the specialised cells in the brain, from damage and any injury. Thus, paprika powder in routine meals is very advantageous in reducing the occurrence of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.
Augments Heart Function
Blessed with generous doses of vitamin E and omega-3-fatty acids, paprika powder significantly diminishes the levels of bad LDL cholesterol as well as triglycerides in the bloodstream. Moreover, paprika can also lower blood pressure and ease the tension in the arteries, thereby preventing severe cardiac ailments like atherosclerosis. This is owing to its anthocyanin antioxidant content.
Prevents Cancer
The polyphenolic class of antioxidants in paprika is exceptionally useful in averting the occurrence of cancers. These compounds function by eliminating harmful free radicals from oxidising the healthy cells in vital organs in the body such as kidney, liver and bones, thereby conferring the system with valuable cytoprotective traits. This, in turn, prevents healthy cells from entering into an uncontrolled proliferative mechanism, thereby stopping cancer.
Promotes Visual Functions
Paprika powder abounds in vitamin A-related phytonutrients known as carotenoids and hence, adding just a pinch of this seasoning to salads, soups and dals confers immense merits for eye health. The richness of lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene in this hot-flavoured spice uplifts the operations of the optic nerve, retina, cornea, eye lens and other eye organelles, as well as lowers the risk of acquiring age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and cataracts.
Improves Blood Circulation
Blessed with ample amounts of iron, the vital trace mineral essential for the formation of new, healthy red blood cells, paprika ensures the transport of oxygen and key nutrients to other organs in the body. Moreover, paprika also supplies vast quantities of vitamin C, which amplifies iron absorption by tissues and thus iron-deficiency condition of anaemia, which causes severe fatigue, lethargy and decline in mental health, is effectively prevented.
Remedies Insomnia
Paprika powder comprises copious levels of vitamin B6 or pyridoxine, which is a potent nutrient that positively influences neurological functions and regulates brain activity. It assists in the synthesis of melatonin, which is the hormone that induces sleep, thereby treating insomnia and promoting undisturbed resting cycles at night. Including a dash of paprika powder to staple dinner meals of curries, salads, helps conserve neurotransmitter activity of serotonin, which elevates moods and alleviates stress, depression.
Reduces Join Inflammation
Certain hot varieties of paprika contain capsaicin compound which provides anti-inflammatory benefits. People suffering from inflammatory disorders can get benefit from consuming paprika. It can be very helpful in curbing swelling and soothing joint pain.
Aids Wound Healing
Paprika powder has a significant proportion of Vitamin E that helps in producing red blood cells that are considered essential for rapid wound healing. If you have had a sudden cut, sprinkle some paprika powder or paprika lotion or paprika cream on the affected area. You will feel instant relief from pain, and it will help in the healing process too.
Protects Hair Colour
Vitamin B6 contributes to producing melanin, which is what gives hair its colour, thanks to the vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, found inside the spice. To keep your hair’s colour intact and maintain it, add paprika powder to your hair colour recipes
Fights Acne
Vitamin A is an elixir for skin health. Besides helping to prevent wrinkles formation, it helps to keep the skin clean and free of germs. Most skin issues caused by bacteria can be cured with paprika powder, creams or extracts. People with pesky acne issues should add it to their skin care regimen to clear all acne issues.
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What Are The Different Types Of Paprika Powder?
Paprika powder can vary in flavour and heat level depending on the type of pepper used and how it is processed. Common types include sweet, hot, and smoked paprika.
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What Are The Culinary Uses Of Paprika Powder?
Paprika powder is a versatile spice used in various dishes, including soups, stews, marinades, and rubs. It is often used to add colour and flavour to meat, poultry, seafood, and vegetables.
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What Are The Health Incentives Of Paprika Powder?
Paprika powder is rich in antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and carotenoids, which may help reduce inflammation and protect against certain chronic diseases. It is also low in calories and can be a flavourful, low-calorie addition to meals.
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How Should Paprika Powder Be Stored?
Paprika powder should be stored in an airtight container in a cool place to maintain its flavour and colour. For optimal freshness, it is best used within six months to one year.
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Can Paprika Powder Be Used As A Substitute For Other Spices?
Yes, paprika powder can substitute for other spices, such as chili powder or cayenne pepper, depending on the desired flavour and heat level.
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Are There Any Precautions To Take When Using Paprika Powder?
Some people may be allergic to paprika powder or may have digestive problems if consumed in large quantities. It is best to use it in moderation.
Conclusion:
Besides providing a vibrant, appealing crimson shade to gravies and soups and a wonderful flavour to dishes, paprika powder also supplies numerous benefits for overall health. Thanks to its intrinsically low-calorie value, cholesterol and saturated fat content, as well as vast reserves of beneficial antioxidants, essential vitamins and minerals, paprika powder can ideally be incorporated into regular meals in tiny amounts, to reap its advantages for wellness.
References:
1.Protective Effects of Fermented Paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) on Sodium Iodate-Induced Retinal Damage
Ha-Rim Kim,1 Sol Kim,1 Sang-Wang Lee,2 Hong-Sig Sin,2 and Seon-Young Kim1,*
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7824181/
2. Polyphenols content and antioxidant activity of paprika and pepper spices
Soňa Škrovánková , Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Jiří Mlček ,Jana Orsavova, Tomas Bata University in Zlín, Tunde Jurikova
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/313090542
