Homemade Blackened Seasoning Mix is a robust and flavorful option for enhancing your cooking while controlling the spice level to suit your preference. For those who love to DIY their spices, you might also enjoy creating your own Cajun or ranch seasoning blends.
Why Make Your Own Blackened Seasoning?
Blackened seasoning sits comfortably between Cajun and Creole spices, offering a distinctive flavor profile. While it’s tempting to pick up a premade mix from the store, making it at home not only likely saves a trip (you probably have all the ingredients already) but also allows for customization to your taste preferences.
Crafting Your Own Blackened Seasoning
The process is delightfully simple. Combine your gathered spices into one blend. That’s all there is to it! Adjust to taste, then store it, ensuring your blend remains potent and ready for cooking.
Choosing the Right Storage: Glass vs. Plastic
To prolong the potency of your spices, opt for glass storage over plastic. Glass is less porous and provides a better seal, protecting the spices from air and light, both of which can degrade flavor over time.
Culinary Uses of Blackened Seasoning
This versatile seasoning can be adapted to be as mild or as fiery as you like. It’s excellent on seafood, meats like chicken and steak, and vegetables. Add a twist to your dishes, such as a smoky paprika version for an extra layer of flavor.
Cooking with Blackened Seasoning
The term “blackened” comes from a specific cooking technique often used for preparing meats like chicken or fish. The high-heat method creates a deliciously charred exterior that’s packed with flavor.
Preparing Dishes with Your Seasoning
When you’re ready to cook, heat a cast-iron skillet to high temperatures—avoid non-stick pans for this method. Coat your protein in oil or melted butter, liberally apply your blackened seasoning to both sides, and cook in the skillet. Ensure poultry reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and fish should be opaque and flaky.
Ingredients
- Paprika: 1 tablespoon
- Garlic Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Onion Powder: 1 tablespoon
- Dried Thyme: 1 tablespoon
- Ground Black Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne Pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Oregano: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: 1 tablespoon
Instructions
- In a small mixing bowl, combine all the spices thoroughly with a whisk.
- Transfer the blend to a jar or another airtight container and store it at room temperature to keep the flavors intact.
This homemade blackened seasoning mix not only adds a personalized touch to your kitchen repertoire but also promises a fresh, potent flavor that store-bought mixes can’t match. Enjoy adding it to your favorite dishes and exploring the depth it brings to your meals!
