Spice It Up: How to Make Your Own Louisiana Cajun Seasoning

If you love to cook, one thing you must learn is how to use spices. And in Louisiana, you have so many options to choose from if you are looking for a little Cajun seasoning.
But if you want to make your own Cajun spice, you should try this recipe. It has a little kick, but it packs lots of flavor. And when you make your own spice mix, you can tweak it to get the flavors just like you want it.

You do need to know it will cost you more to make your own because you will have to buy so many different spices to make this concoction. But you will have your very own blend.

How to Get the Best Flavor in Your Cajun Spice

Cajun spice is more than just heat. You want to be sure to bring a balance of onion, garlic and paprika. Of course, cayenne pepper is a must, but be careful with this hot spice. If you want your spice blend to be a little smokier, you can used smoked paprika and add a little extra.

Here’s the Basic Recipe for Cajun Spice

Start off with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, thyme, oregano, ground black pepper, sea salt and cayenne pepper. These will serve as the foundation for your spice blend. But you can add other things that bring out different flavors your love.

How to Use Cajun Spice

This homemade blend can be used just about anywhere. Sprinkle it over chicken or pork before grilling, dust it onto shrimp before pan-searing, or rub it into a steak before tossing it on a hot skillet for that classic “blackened” effect. It’s also perfect stirred into soups, stews, or red beans and rice. Even popcorn and roasted potatoes take on a whole new life with a Cajun kick.

Why Some Folks Make Their Own Spices

Lots of home cooks like to have a specific taste and when you make your own blend, you can tailor it for your taste buds. You can adjust it to give it your own flavor. A homemade spice blend also makes a great gift. Folks really appreciate something homemade if it’s great.

Cajun Spice Recipe
• 1 tablespoon black pepper (freshly ground preferred)
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat level)
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 tablespoon dried basil (optional)
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons onion powder
• 3 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon white pepper (optional, but traditional in Cajun cooking)
Instructions

Combine all these spices in a bowl and blend it all together. Store the spice in an airtight container so it will stay fresh for about 6 months.

You can use this spice to rub onto any protein from chicken to seafood. You can also use it to give your veggies a little extra kick. It's also great in soups and stews and of course any Cajun dishes like gumbo or jambalaya.