Paprika is ground into a fine powder from various cultivars of Pimento Chile Peppers, Capsicum annuum, with different varieties producing differing shapes and sizes. Some cultivars are round and small (those grown in Morocco and Spain), while others are cone shaped and pointed . Paprika chiles are somewhat larger and milder than most chile peppers, and these chiles are picked when they ripen and mature to a dark reddish color. Once ground, the color may vary from a bright red to rusty brown.
Also known as pimento peppers or sweet red peppers, Paprika Chiles are relished for their vibrant color and mildly pungent, peppery/sweet flavor. Paprika is called for in many Cajun and Creole soups and stews.