Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Homemade Cajun Seasoning is a versatile and flavorful spice blend that adds a smoky, spicy kick to a variety of dishes. With a base of paprika, cayenne, and black and white pepper, this seasoning is perfect for meats, seafood, vegetables, and traditional Cajun dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée. By making your own Cajun seasoning, you can adjust the heat level to your preference and avoid the excess salt often found in store-bought versions.
Ingredients
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2 tablespoons smoked paprika
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1 tablespoon kosher salt (or less for salt-free version)
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired heat)
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1 teaspoon white pepper
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1 teaspoon black pepper
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1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
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1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Combine all ingredients in a bowl or jar.
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Mix well until the seasoning blend is evenly distributed.
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Store in an airtight container for up to a year.
Servings and Timing
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Servings: Makes about 1/2 cup
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
Variations
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Less Spicy: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for a milder seasoning.
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Herbaceous: Add dried basil, thyme, or oregano for a more complex flavor.
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Salt-Free: Omit the salt for a low-sodium version.
Storage/Reheating
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. The seasoning will last up to a year when stored properly.
FAQs
1. Can I use this seasoning on vegetables?
Yes, it’s perfect for seasoning roasted or sautéed vegetables like potatoes, brussels sprouts, or carrots.
2. How do I use Cajun seasoning on meat?
Sprinkle or rub the seasoning on chicken, beef, shrimp, or fish before grilling, roasting, or sautéing.
3. Can I make this seasoning in large batches?
Yes, this recipe is easily scalable. Just multiply the ingredients to make a larger batch.
4. Can I use this seasoning for blackening?
Yes, it works wonderfully for blackening fish or meats using the high-heat method.
5. Can I use this on pasta dishes?
Absolutely! Add it to pasta sauces like Cajun Alfredo or shrimp pasta for extra flavor.
Conclusion
Homemade Cajun Seasoning is a must-have in any kitchen, offering an easy way to add authentic Louisiana flavor to your dishes. Customize the heat and flavor to your liking, and enjoy it on meats, seafood, vegetables, and more. This homemade blend will elevate any meal with its bold, smoky spice!
Homemade Cajun Seasoning
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About 1/2 cup
- Category: Spice Blend, Seasoning
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: Cajun, Creole, Southern
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Homemade Cajun Seasoning is a flavorful and versatile spice blend that adds a smoky, spicy kick to a variety of dishes. With ingredients like paprika, cayenne, and black pepper, this seasoning is perfect for meats, seafood, vegetables, and Cajun classics like gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée. By making your own blend, you can adjust the heat and avoid the excess salt in store-bought versions.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons smoked paprika
1 tablespoon kosher salt (or less for salt-free version)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to desired heat)
1 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
Instructions
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Combine Ingredients:
In a bowl or jar, add all ingredients. -
Mix Well:
Stir the mixture until the seasoning is evenly distributed. -
Store:
Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place.
Notes
Variations:
Less Spicy: Omit or reduce cayenne pepper for a milder version.
Herbaceous: Add dried basil or oregano for more depth of flavor.
Salt-Free: Skip the salt for a low-sodium version.
Storage:
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year.
