Cajun Seasoning Spice Mix Recipe

Cajun spice mix is a Louisiana seasoning that packs a punch when it comes to flavors. This delicious, mildly spicy blend enhances the taste of various dishes such as pasta, shrimp, chicken, fish, and much more. If you've never made your own Cajun seasoning at home, you're missing out on better flavor and significant savings. Homemade Cajun seasoning not only tastes fresher, but its also more affordable than store-bought versions!

What Is Cajun Seasoning?

Cajun seasoning hails from Louisiana, the birthplace of Cajun cuisine. Its a fusion of Native American, West African, Caribbean, and French cooking influences. The seasoning combines earthy, spicy, and sometimes smoky flavors, creating a distinct taste that's perfect for a variety of dishes.

Whats in Cajun Seasoning?

Typical Cajun seasonings, including popular store brands like Slap Ya Mama and Tony Chacheres, are made with black pepper, white pepper, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Some variations may include salt, mustard powder, chili peppers, or cumin. This homemade recipe also incorporates oregano and thyme, which arent usually found in traditional Cajun spice blends they are more common in Creole seasonings.

Cajun Seasoning vs. Creole Seasoning

Creole cuisine also originates from Louisiana, but its a blend of African, Italian, French, Portuguese, and Spanish cooking traditions. Creole seasoning typically includes more herbs than Cajun seasoning, often with basil, thyme, oregano, and sometimes rosemary or parsley. While Cajun seasoning is spicier with a more robust flavor, Creole seasoning offers a lighter kick with a focus on aromatic herbs.

Cajun Seasoning vs. Blackened Seasoning

Blackened seasoning is somewhat of a hybrid between Cajun and Creole seasoning. Its spicy, thanks to cayenne or chili powder, but it also contains herbs like oregano, thyme, and basil. The key difference lies in its application: Blackened seasoning is used when cooking meat or seafood thats coated in butter and seared, creating a blackened crust on the outside. Cajun seasoning, on the other hand, is typically used for flavoring without the crusting technique.

How to Make Homemade Cajun Seasoning

Making your own Cajun seasoning is quick and simple! Just combine all the ingredients in a bowl, mix well, and store the blend in an airtight or jar. Its an easy and flavorful addition to any kitchen!

How to Use Homemade Cajun Seasoning

This seasoning works wonderfully on protein, such as chicken, shrimp, fish, and steak. Its also fantastic for pasta dishes, rice, and even stuffed peppers. If you need some recipe inspiration, try:

• Cajun Style Stuffed Peppers
• Cajun Pastalaya
• Cajun Home Fries
• Cajun Air Fryer Salmon

Looking for more Cajun inspiration? Check out our full collection of Cajun recipes!

How to Store Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix

Store the homemade Cajun seasoning in an airtight or jar in a cool, dry place, like a spice cabinet or pantry. It will stay fresh for up to a year, adding flavor to your meals whenever you need it!

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoons dried oregano
• 1 teaspoons dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions:

1. Gather all the ingredients.
2. In a bowl, stir together paprika, salt, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes until evenly blended.
3. Store the spice mix in an airtight .

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

• Calories: 6
• Fat: 0g
• Carbs: 1g
• Protein: 0g
• Sodium: 388mg (17% daily value)
• Fiber: 1g (2% daily value)
• Vitamin C: 1mg (1% daily value)
• Calcium: 9mg (1% daily value)
• Iron: 1mg (3% daily value)
• Potassium: 30mg (1% daily value)

Note: Nutrient information is based on available data. If you follow a medically restrictive diet, consult your doctor before preparing this recipe.