The flavors of hot, sweet, and smoked paprika are different because they are made from different types of peppers. Hot paprika is made from chiles, such as Hungarian wax peppers or cayenne peppers, which give it a spicy flavor. It looks similar to sweet paprika, but packs a much heftier punch. Use it in dishes where you want a spicy kick. Sweet paprika is made from sweet peppers and, like hot paprika, has a bright red color. It is popular in Spanish and Mediterranean dishes, as well as classics like chicken paprikash for its mild, sweet flavor, and for use as a garnish. Smoked paprika is made from peppers that are smoked and ground into a spice blend. The smoking process gives smoked paprika its darker color and smoky, earthy flavor, which makes it a great choice for meat rubs and marinades.