Substitutes for Smoked Paprika

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Paprika dried over oak wood, giving a distinctive smoky-sweet flavor to meats, stews, and dips.

Can't find Smoked Paprika in your kitchen? No problem! Below are 3 tested substitutes with exact ratios, perfect for baking, cooking, and everything in between.

Substitute Ratio Best For Dietary
Regular Paprika + Liquid Smoke 1 tsp paprika + 1/4 tsp liquid smoke per 1 tsp smoked paprika spice rubs, stews, dips, BBQ
Vegan Gluten-Free
Chipotle Powder 1/2 tsp per 1 tsp smoked paprika spice rubs, Mexican dishes, BBQ
Vegan Gluten-Free
Ancho Chili Powder 1:1 replacement stews, spice rubs, dips
Vegan Gluten-Free

How to Use

Best substitute. Liquid smoke is very concentrated — use sparingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best substitute for Smoked Paprika?
The best substitute depends on your recipe, but Regular Paprika + Liquid Smoke is a reliable choice for most applications. Use 1 tsp paprika + 1/4 tsp liquid smoke per 1 tsp smoked paprika.
What's a vegan substitute for Smoked Paprika?
Regular Paprika + Liquid Smoke is an excellent vegan option. Use 1 tsp paprika + 1/4 tsp liquid smoke per 1 tsp smoked paprika.
Can I use any of these substitutes interchangeably?
Most substitutes work well in their recommended use cases, but they may produce slightly different results. The notes above explain the differences and best practices.
Will the taste be affected?
Some substitutes may subtly change the flavor profile of your dish, but they'll work great in the recommended use cases. Start with the suggested ratio and adjust to your taste.