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If you are looking to add an authentic touch to your cooking while in Spain, Pimentón de la Vera is one ingredient you must check out! Widely available in a variety of styles, this will add a smoky heat to your dishes. Add a spoonful to pasta dishes, rice dishes and stews or add a sprinkle to the top of pizza or quick dishes like cheese on toast.
Pimentón de la Vera is often used in the preparation of Chorizo, which is a typical meat based sausage available throughout Spain. However you will find a growing range of vegan and vegetarian alternatives which also use Pimentón de la Vera as a seasoning to get that authentic Spanish flavour.
What is Pimentón de la Vera?
Pimentón de la Vera is a type of paprika produced exclusively in the La Vera region of Cáceres, Extremadura. It is protected by a Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP) – Protected Designation of Origin – which guarantees its quality and authenticity. This seasoning is made from ripe red peppers that are carefully dried over wood smoke, giving it its characteristic smoky flavour.
Why is Pimentón de la Vera Special?
The wood-smoking drying method makes Pimentón de la Vera truly unique. During the process, the peppers are placed on wooden racks and exposed to smoke from oak or holm oak for about two weeks. This, combined with La Vera’s specific climate conditions, produces a paprika with an intense, deep flavour that can be slightly sweet or spicy, depending on the variety.
If you get the opportunity to visit the La Vera area in Extremadura (which is a truly magical place) during drying time, you will witness first hand the smell of smoke and peppers which wisps through the air.
Types of Pimentón de la Vera
Pimentón de la Vera comes in three main varieties:
- Dulce (Sweet): Mild and slightly sweet, ideal for stews, soups, and marinades.
- Agridulce (Bittersweet): A balance of sweet and spicy, perfect for dishes needing a touch of complexity.
- Picante (Spicy): Adds a hint of heat to your dishes without being overpowering.
Compared to other types of paprika, such as Hungarian paprika, Pimentón de la Vera has a smokier, earthier profile, making it an essential ingredient in Spanish cuisine.
To get an idea of the different types of Pimentón de la Vera take a look at this website HERE.
How to Buy Pimentón de la Vera
You’ll typically find Pimentón de la Vera in small metal tins or packets (sobres). These are widely available in supermarkets, specialty stores, and local markets. Look for the DOP (denominación de origen protegida (‘protected denomination of origin’) label to ensure authenticity. You will find smaller glass jars (normal spice jar size) which can be handy if you are here for a short stay.
You are likely to find that Pimentón de la Vera is significantly cheaper in Spain, therefore it is certainly a food ingredient to consider taking home.
Tips for Using Pimentón de la Vera
Pimentón de la Vera is incredibly versatile and can transform simple dishes into authentic Spanish delights. Here are some ideas:
- Add it to your sofritos: A few pinches of paprika in your sofrito (a base of sautéed onion, garlic, and tomato) enhance the flavor of any dish.
- Season roasted vegetables: Mix paprika with olive oil and drizzle over potatoes, zucchini, or eggplant before roasting.
- Flavor legumes: It’s perfect for enriching stews with lentils, chickpeas, or beans.
- Create a quick dressing: Combine it with olive oil, minced garlic, and a pinch of salt for a simple salad or bread dressing.
- Sprinkle it on snacks: Try dusting it over popcorn or roasted chickpeas for a smoky, savory kick.
Tips for Self-Catering Accommodations
Pimentón de la Vera is an easy way to add flavour to your meals without requiring complicated ingredients or advanced kitchen equipment.
Look to buy tins of Pimentón de la Vera rather than the bags if you are limited on storage facilities. The tins snap shut so you don’t need any more storage containers. Bags of Pimentón de la Vera work out cheaper – but you will need a way to close the bag to keep it air tight.
Have you tried Pimentón de la Vera? Do you have a favourite way to use it?
