Paprika – The Vibrant Spice That Adds Smoky Heat to Skewers, Covent Garden

At Skewers, your halal spot on Long Acre in Covent Garden, colour and aroma matter as much as taste. That’s why we love Paprika — the spice that turns simple marinades into rich, smoky, and vibrant creations. You’ll taste it in our Smoky Paprika Kebap Skewer, where it delivers both heat and depth.

Did you know? Paprika comes from ground red peppers and was first cultivated in Central America. It made its way to Europe in the 16th century and quickly became essential in Hungarian and Spanish kitchens. In fact, Hungary has an entire culinary identity built around paprika, from their stews to sausages.

Celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal praises paprika for its ability to transform grilled meats by layering flavour without overwhelming other ingredients.

At Skewers, we use a mix of smoked paprika for its earthy depth and sweet paprika for its vibrant colour. Combined with garlic and olive oil, it gives our skewers a gorgeous red hue and a balanced warmth that keeps you coming back for more.

✔️ Best Pairings:

• Chicken and lamb skewers

• Roasted potatoes or vegetables

• Garlic and onion

• Herbs like oregano and thyme

🚫 Avoid pairing with:

• Delicate herbs like basil (the bold smokiness overshadows their freshness)

Health Benefits: Paprika is rich in vitamin A and antioxidants, supporting healthy skin, eyes, and immunity.

✨ Chef Tip: Always cook paprika gently — overheating it makes it bitter. Add it to marinades or bloom it in warm oil for best results.

Next time you’re near 70 Long Acre, let the smoky aroma guide you to Skewers and our paprika-powered halal skewers.