Q: What’s the difference between Hungarian and regular paprika? Where can I find Hungarian paprika?

A: Flavor is the difference between the various kinds of this bright red spice. All paprika is made from sweet red chile peppers that originated in South America and found their way to various parts of the world. The flavor of the peppers depends on the various soils and growing conditions.

Regular paprika (on right in photo), the kind labeled simply "paprika" in the grocery store, has a very mild flavor that's neither sweet nor spicy. Hungarian paprika, however, which is made in Hungary, is full-flavored and ranges from sweet to pungent. Look for varieties labeled "sweet," "hot" (sharp) and a mixture of the two that's often called "half-sharp."

You can mail order paprika from Penzeys (www.penzeys.com) and Vanns Spices (www.vansspices.com).

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