Homemade Blackened Seasoning Recipe

What is Blackened Seasoning?

Blackened seasoning, aka Blackening seasoning, is a spice mixture of ground powders and dried herbs. It’s moderately spicy and has a bold flavor. I wouldn’t say it’s overly spicy, but it does have a good amount of heat. I think blackened seasoning tastes like a mix between Cajun and Creole seasoning blends.

How to Blacken Food?

Blackening is the process of cooking in which food becomes blackened. First, pat the protein dry. Then, dip the protein in melted butter. Finally, coat the protein in the blackened seasoning mixture. I like to add a lot of seasoning to the meat to completely cover it.

The blackening is caused by the char the meat gets while cooking in the pan, usually a cast iron skillet. Look for the blackened meat to have a dark, crusty char when it’s done. Depending on what protein you are cooking, you only need to cook it a few minutes on each side. Blackened does not mean burnt!

How to Store Spices and Seasonings?

Store all of your spices and seasoning blends in airtight containers away from heat and light. Although spices should be stored in a cool area, it is not recommended to keep them in a refrigerator. Ideally, spices and seasonings should be kept in glass containers because plastic is porous and can allow air to slowly damage the flavor. Spices stored in glass jars will have a longer shelf life. If stored properly, the mix of spices in this blackening seasoning blend will have a shelf life of about 2 years. So make a big batch!

What You Will Need to make Homemade Blackened Seasoning:

Keep in mind that you can make your own blend by varying the ratios of spices to create a personalized flavor.

• Smoked Paprika – use smoked paprika, if you can! It’s one of my favorite spices and adds a rich, smoky flavor to food. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika will work too.
• Cayenne – depending on the level of spice you want in your blackening seasoning, add or subtract the amount of cayenne.
• Onion Powder
• Garlic Powder
• Thyme
• Oregano
• Basil
• Salt & Pepper

More Recipes to Try:

• Blackened Salmon Bowl with Jalapeño Yogurt Sauce
• Simple Sausage Skillet with Onions, Peppers, and Potatoes
• Secret Ingredient for the Best Burger