Running low on smoked paprika? Here are the best verified substitutes, including how to adjust your measurements.

About smoked paprika
Smoked paprika is a ground spice made from red peppers that have been dried and smoked over oak wood, most famously produced in the La Vera region of Spain. It imparts a deep, earthy smokiness and rich red colour to dishes without the use of liquid smoke or a grill. It is a cornerstone ingredient in Spanish cuisine and widely used in rubs, stews, marinades, and spice blends.
Best substitute
Sweet paprika replicates the colour and mild pepper flavour of smoked paprika, while a small amount of liquid smoke adds the missing smokiness. Use sparingly as liquid smoke is very concentrated.
Alternative
Chipotle powder is made from smoked jalapeño peppers, so it delivers a genuine smokiness similar to smoked paprika. It is considerably hotter, so reduce the quantity and adjust to taste.
Alternative
| Country | Name |
|---|---|
| Australia | smoked paprika |
| ES | pimentón ahumado |
| United Kingdom | smoked paprika |
| United States | smoked paprika |
Plain sweet paprika provides the characteristic red colour and mild pepper flavour but lacks any smokiness. Best used when the smoky note is not the dominant element in the dish.
Alternative
Ancho chilli powder is made from dried poblano peppers and carries mild earthy, slightly fruity notes with a hint of smokiness. It is darker in colour and mildly spicy, making it a reasonable stand-in in bold, robust recipes.
Alternative
A blend of mostly sweet paprika with a small amount of cayenne can approximate the colour and mild heat of smoked paprika, though it will lack smokiness entirely. This is a last-resort pantry substitute.