Erőspaprika (“EH-REAUSH-PAHP-RI-KAH”) is a spice typical of Hungarian cuisine and is grown in many gardens. Despite this, it is used in moderation as many people fear that the “hot” chemical capsaicin is harmful to health, although evidence has shown that it has healing properties.
The plant originates from South America and was brought to Europe in the times of Columbus. It has been used in Hungary since the 1560s when it was called vörös törökbors (“red Turkish pepper”), tatárkabors (“Tatar pepper”) and pogány bors (“pagan pepper”). The powdered spice was not used for another 200 years.
In addition to adding kick to food, hot peppers are used in Hungary to make pálinka, for example, which can stimulate the appetite. It is also used to make paprikaszesz (hot peppers soaked in alcohol and drained) which is effective against hair loss and insect bites.
