Tomato Paste + Chili Flakes Substitute for Paprika: Exact Ratio
Looking for a paprika substitute? Tomato Paste + Chili Flakes works as a direct replacement. Use 1 tsp paprika = 1/2 tsp tomato paste + pinch of chili flakes in any recipe that calls for paprika. This swap works best for goulash, soups, braised dishes.
Best Substitute
Tomato Paste + Chili Flakes
1 tsp paprika = 1/2 tsp tomato paste + pinch of chili flakes
Provides the red color and mild warmth of paprika. Good for soups and stews when you're completely out of dried peppers.
Tips When Replacing Paprika in Recipes
There are three main types of paprika: sweet (mild, most common), hot, and smoked (pimentón). They're not interchangeable—smoked paprika has a distinctive BBQ-like flavor. When substituting, match the type your recipe calls for.
What Is Paprika and Why Substitute It?
A mild red spice made from ground dried peppers, used for color and gentle warmth in Hungarian, Spanish, and American dishes.
Tomato Paste + Chili Flakes is one of 5 alternatives you can use instead of paprika. For a complete list of paprika substitutes with ratios and cooking tips, visit the full paprika substitute page.
What Else Can I Use Instead of Paprika?
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tomato paste + chili flakes instead of paprika?
Yes, you can use tomato paste + chili flakes as a substitute for paprika. Use 1 tsp paprika = 1/2 tsp tomato paste + pinch of chili flakes. Provides the red color and mild warmth of paprika. Good for soups and stews when you're completely out of dried peppers.
How much tomato paste + chili flakes equals paprika?
Use 1 tsp paprika = 1/2 tsp tomato paste + pinch of chili flakes to replace paprika with tomato paste + chili flakes. Works best for goulash, soups, braised dishes.
What is the best substitute for paprika?
Tomato Paste + Chili Flakes is a popular substitute for paprika. Use 1 tsp paprika = 1/2 tsp tomato paste + pinch of chili flakes for a 1-to-1 replacement. See all 5 alternatives on our paprika substitute page.
Is tomato paste + chili flakes a vegan substitute for paprika?
Yes, tomato paste + chili flakes is vegan and works as a plant-based alternative to paprika. Use 1 tsp paprika = 1/2 tsp tomato paste + pinch of chili flakes.