This homemade Cajun seasoning captures the essence of Southern cuisine in a single jar. Whip this easy spice mix up in just 2 minutes and enjoy as a seasoning for meat, fish, seafood, and vegetables.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create your own Cajun seasoning right in your kitchen. So say goodbye to store-bought blends and embrace the joy of customizing your flavors. From sizzling meats to zesty vegetables and dips, this homemade Cajun seasoning unlocks the bold and soulful flavors of the South.
Love some spice in your dishes? Try this spicy cauliflower soup (without cream), spicy herbs and greens omelet, and Moroccan spiced hummus to add heat to your meals.
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What is Cajun seasoning?
A burst of flavor from the deep South! Before I dive into making the spice blend, what is Cajun seasoning exactly?
The Cajun spice blend originates in Louisiana, a Southern state in the USA. Its roots trace back to the Acadian settlers, who brought their unique culinary traditions by infusing their dishes with bold flavors and soulful spices.
Creating your own homemade Cajun seasoning allows you to tailor the blend to your liking. Whether you crave a mild, well-rounded flavor or a fiery kick, this recipe is customizable. Making your own Cajun seasoning also ensures that every dish you prepare will have a perfect balance of flavors.
So, gather your favorite spices and create unforgettable dishes that celebrate the vibrant and robust flavors of the Deep South. Let the magic begin!
Cajun vs. Creole seasoning
Cajun and Creole seasoning are both spice blends that originate from Louisiana. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences.
Cajun seasoning is rooted in the rural Cajun culture of Louisiana. Typically, Cajun seasoning features a blend of bold, earthy spices with a focus on heat and savory notes. Ingredients include paprika, cayenne, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano. The heat level can vary, but Cajun seasoning is spicier and more assertive than Creole seasoning.
Creole seasoning, on the other hand, reflects the diverse cultural influences of New Orleans, where French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean flavors converge. Creole seasoning is characterized by a more complex and layered flavor, incorporating a balance of heat, herbs, and aromatic spices. It typically includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, basil, pepper, and cayenne. Creole seasoning tends to have a milder flavor and a touch of sweetness.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Tailored taste – Adjust the amount of heat, the level of smokiness, and the intensity of each ingredient to suit your taste preferences.
- Customizable heat – Cajun cuisine is known for its spicy kick, but not everyone has the same tolerance for heat. Add extra cayenne pepper for a fiery explosion, or tone it down for a milder experience. The choice is yours!
- Allergen-free – Homemade Cajun spice mix allows you to cater to specific dietary needs or allergens. You have the freedom to select ingredients that are gluten-free, salt-free, or free from any other potential allergens.
- Versatile – With homemade Cajun spice seasoning in your pantry, the possibilities are endless. Enhance the flavors of meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, soups, stews, and more. Use it as a dry rub, a marinade, or a seasoning in sauces and dips.
Ingredient notes
- Paprika – Choose a high-quality paprika, preferably a sweet variety, to provide a rich, earthy base for your seasoning.
- Cayenne pepper – Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance. You can use a milder chili powder as a substitute if desired.
- Black pepper – Freshly ground the pepper for the best taste.
- Garlic powder – Look for garlic powder made from pure garlic without added salt or fillers.
- Thyme and oregano – Dried thyme and oregano contribute earthy and slightly floral notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
See recipe card for quantities.
Tips & substitutions
- Spice level – Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper. Or, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Smoky flavor – To add a smoky element to your Cajun seasoning, use smoked paprika or add a small amount of ground chipotle pepper.
- Recipe scaling – Adjust the quantities of ingredients to scale the recipe up or down. If you want to make a larger batch of Cajun seasoning, maintain the proportions of the spices and herbs, ensuring a consistent flavor balance.
- Taste testing – As you mix the ingredients, periodically taste the seasoning blend to adjust the flavors according to your preference. This way, you can fine-tune the level of heat and seasoning intensity.
How to make Cajun seasoning
Step 1: In a small bowl or jar, combine all the ingredients: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and salt.
Step 2: Mix well until all the spices are thoroughly combined. Make sure there are no clumps and that the flavors are evenly distributed. Taste the seasoning and adjust the spice level and saltiness to your preference.
Expert tip
For an extra layer of depth, toast and grind the spices. This allows you to unlock their full potential by intensifying their aroma and taste. Toasting and grinding the spices maximize the flavor potential of each ingredient, resulting in an aromatic and vibrant Cajun seasoning.
Cajun seasoning uses
Cajun seasoning is incredibly versatile. Use it to add flavor to a wide range of dishes. Here are some popular and delicious ways to use Cajun seasoning:
- Seasoning meats – Sprinkle this homemade Cajun seasoning on chicken, beef, pork, or seafood before grilling, baking, or pan-searing. It adds a savory and spicy kick to the meat and creates a delicious crust.
- Blackening – Coat fish, shrimp, or chicken in Cajun seasoning before cooking. This technique creates a beautifully charred and flavorful exterior while keeping the meat tender and juicy.
- Gumbos and Jambalayas – Cajun seasoning is a staple ingredient in traditional Louisiana dishes like gumbo and jambalaya. Add it to the base of these hearty stews, along with the onions, bell peppers, and celery.
- Roasted vegetables – Toss vegetables like this oven-roasted butternut squash or air fryer crispy roasted carrots with Cajun seasoning and a drizzle of olive oil. Roast them in the oven until golden and tender for a spicy and flavorful side dish.
- Seasoned fries – Use the seasoning to amp up your fries, like in this Cajun fries recipe.
- Seasoned popcorn – Sprinkle a little Cajun seasoning over freshly popped popcorn for a savory and spicy snack. Also, try these smoky chipotle popcorn and spicy curry turmeric popcorn for a flavorful twist.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, Cajun seasoning is known for its spiciness. It includes cayenne and black pepper, which contribute to its heat. If you prefer a milder version, omit the cayenne completely.
You can certainly use fresh herbs in your Cajun seasoning instead of dried ones. However, fresh herbs have a higher water content, which can affect the texture and shelf life of the seasoning.
You will need to use more fresh herbs compared to dried herbs. A good rule of thumb is to use three times the amount of fresh herbs to achieve a similar flavor profile.
If using fresh herbs, keep in mind that the moisture reduces the shelf life of the seasoning. Store the Cajun seasoning in an airtight container in the fridge to help preserve its freshness.
You can adjust the amount of salt to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Gradually decrease the salt while keeping the other spice and herb proportions the same. Or, omit the salt for a low-sodium Cajun seasoning.
This homemade Cajun seasoning can be stored for several months. Transfer it to an airtight container, preferably a glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. The container should be clean and dry before adding the seasoning. Store the container in a cool and dry area, away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Cajun seasoning can be vegan, depending on the specific ingredients used in the blend. The primary components of Cajun seasoning are herbs, spices, and seasonings, which are typically plant-based. However, check the ingredients and verify that no animal-derived additives are included.
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???? Recipe
Best Homemade Cajun Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon sweet paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- ½ tablespoon cayenne pepper
- ½ tablespoon black pepper
- ½ tablespoon salt
Instructions
- In a small bowl or jar, combine all the ingredients: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, and salt.
- Mix well until all the spices are thoroughly combined. Make sure there are no clumps and that the flavors are evenly distributed. Taste the seasoning and adjust the spice level and saltiness to your preference.
- Transfer the homemade Cajun seasoning to an airtight container, such as a spice jar or a small mason jar, and store it in a cool, dry place.
Notes
- Spice level – Adjust the heat level by increasing or decreasing the amount of cayenne pepper. Or, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Smoky flavor – To add a smoky element to your Cajun seasoning, use smoked paprika or add a small amount of ground chipotle pepper.
- Recipe scaling – Adjust the quantities of ingredients to scale the recipe up or down. If you want to make a larger batch of Cajun seasoning, maintain the proportions of the spices and herbs, ensuring a consistent flavor balance.
Nutrition
Nutritional values are estimates only calculated with the recipe calorie and nutrition calculator provided by verywellfit.com. The author of this website is not a nutritionist nor a doctor. All nutritional data provided in the recipes and correspondent blog posts are for informational purposes only. Do not use the information as nutritional or medical advice.
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