You’ve sprinkled it on deviled eggs, stirred it into goulash, and dusted it over roasted potatoes. But if you thought paprika came from a mysterious “paprika tree,” you’re not alone.

Recently, social media users were surprised to learn that paprika is simply made from dried and ground red peppers—yes, the same sweet bell peppers you can buy at the grocery store.

No secret plant. No exotic fruit. Just sun-ripened red peppers transformed into one of the world’s most beloved spices.