Spice up your meals with my blackening seasoning recipe! In this article, discover an easy recipe for a flavorful blend perfect for meats and veggies.
This family-friendly blackening seasoning recipe is a game-changer for your meals. Crafted with a blend of common pantry spices, it adds a burst of flavor without overwhelming heat. The heat in this spice blend is variable and you can simply adjust the heat to fit your family’s palate.
It’s perfect for introducing kids to bolder tastes, it strikes a delightful balance between savory, smoky, and mild spiciness. The versatility of this seasoning makes it suitable for various dishes—chicken, fish, or even roasted vegetables.
By creating this homemade blackening seasoning, you have control over the ingredients, ensuring a healthier option compared to store-bought alternatives with additives.
Bonus points for encouraging culinary exploration in a kid-friendly way with this easy-to-make seasoning, elevating your family meals to a new level of deliciousness!
Ingredients for Blackening Seasoning Recipe
Gather these simple pantry staples for a flavorful culinary adventure!
- Paprika (Hot, Smoked, or Sweet): Infuses a rich flavor, contributing depth and complexity to the seasoning. For a smokier flavor, select a smoked paprika. For a mild blend, select sweet paprika, and to amp up the heat, go for a hot paprika. This blackening seasoning blend is highly customizable.
- Dried Thyme: Adds earthy, herbaceous notes, enhancing the overall aromatic profile of the blend. You can also opt to swap out the dried thyme for dried oregano, or even an herb de Provence if that’s what you have on hand.
- Dried Parsley: Provides a fresh, mild herbal element, balancing and brightening the flavor. I use dried parsley for the bright flavor, but you may omit this without replacement if you do not have any on hand.
- Garlic Powder: Introduces a robust, savory taste, enriching the seasoning with a classic garlic essence.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the savory profile, offering a sweet and pungent undertone for a well-rounded taste.
- Salt (Fine): Acts as a crucial flavor enhancer, ensuring all other spices meld together harmoniously.
- Cayenne Pepper: Infuses a subtle heat, contributing a gentle kick to the seasoning without overpowering. Start with a small amount depending on your family’s tolerance to spicy food. Increase the amount based on your family’s tastes.
- Ground Black Pepper: Adds a warm, pungent flavor, complementing the other spices and providing a hint of heat.
How to Make Blackening Seasoning
Use a blend of common pantry spices to create this blackening seasoning recipe and never be without your favorite spice blends!
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Increase seasoning amounts like ground pepper, cayenne, and herbs to suit your taste buds.
- Store in an air-tight container or spice jar for up to 6 months.
Why this Blackening Seasoning Recipe Works
This family-friendly blackening seasoning recipe strikes a perfect balance, infusing flavor without overwhelming heat. The mild spice blend appeals to diverse palates, making it suitable for kids. Additionally, using common pantry staples ensures accessibility and the absence of excessive heat or exotic ingredients promotes wide acceptance among family members.
The versatility of the seasoning caters to various dishes, allowing families to experiment with different meals. By crafting a homemade blend, you control the ingredients, providing a healthier option compared to store-bought alternatives with additives.
This blackening seasoning recipe fosters a positive culinary experience, introducing families to bolder tastes gently and enjoyably.
Recipe Tips and Kitchen Tricks
- Prep Ahead: Mix a larger batch for future use. Store in an airtight container for convenience.
- Customize Heat: Adjust cayenne pepper for milder or spicier preferences, catering to all taste buds.
- Freshness Matters: Use quality spices for maximum flavor. Check expiration dates to ensure potency.
Family-Friendly Side Dishes
- Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, with a kid-approved cheesy twist.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: A touch of sweetness enhances the natural flavors, making them irresistible for all ages.
- Macaroni and Cheese: Classic comfort food that never fails to please, with gooey cheese and perfectly cooked pasta.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Cajun Twist: Enhance the heat by doubling the cayenne pepper, adding a pinch of smoked paprika, and a dash of hot sauce. Ideal for those who love a bolder kick.
- Herb-infused Delight: Elevate the seasoning with additional dried herbs like rosemary and oregano. This variation adds a fresh, aromatic dimension, perfect for herb enthusiasts.
- Citrus Zest Fusion: Introduce a burst of citrusy flavor by incorporating lemon or orange zest into the mix. This bright and tangy variation complements seafood and chicken dishes beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
- Prepare Proteins: Coat chicken, fish, shrimp, or tofu evenly with the seasoning. Pat them dry before applying for better adherence.
- Adjust Heat Source: Choose a hot grill, cast-iron skillet [paid link], or pan for cooking. The high heat enhances the blackening effect.
- Oil Application: Lightly brush or spray oil on both sides of the protein to prevent sticking and promote a crisp crust.
- Even Cooking: Ensure even cooking by allowing proteins to reach room temperature before placing them on the hot surface.
- Sear to Perfection: Cook each side until it develops a dark, flavorful crust. Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the protein.
Storing, freezing, and reheating instructions
Storing:
- Keep the blackening seasoning in an airtight container, away from heat and sunlight.
- Store in a cool, dry place, such as a pantry or spice cabinet.
- Check the container’s seal to ensure freshness; spices maintain their potency when stored properly.
Freezing:
- While the seasoning can be frozen, it’s generally better to freeze the dishes you’ve prepared with it.
- For pre-made blackened proteins or seasoned veggies, wrap tightly in plastic wrap or use airtight containers before freezing.
- Label containers with the date to track freshness.
Reheating:
- For frozen dishes, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheat proteins in an oven or skillet for a crispy texture, ensuring thorough warming.
- Veggies can be reheated in the oven or on the stovetop, retaining their original texture and flavor.
- Always use a moderate heat setting to avoid overcooking and compromising the quality of the dish.
Note: Always check the quality of the seasoning and dishes before reheating or consuming. Spices may lose potency over time, so adjust quantities accordingly for optimal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I adjust the spiciness of the blackening seasoning?
Absolutely! Customize the heat by tweaking the cayenne pepper quantity. Start with less for milder flavor and add more for a spicier kick.
How long can I store the blackening seasoning?
Properly stored in an airtight container, it can last up to 6 months. Check for freshness by smelling the spices before use.
Can I use this seasoning for vegetables?
Certainly! It adds a delightful flavor to roasted or grilled veggies. Adjust the quantity based on personal taste preferences.
What’s the best way to apply the seasoning to proteins?
Ensure proteins are dry, then coat evenly with the seasoning. For a more intense flavor, marinate meats with the seasoning ahead of time.
Can I freeze dishes seasoned with blackening seasoning?
Yes, it freezes well. Wrap the prepared dish tightly, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw before reheating.
Family-Friendly Drink Pairings
Remember to consider the flavors of the blackening seasoning when choosing beverages, aiming for options that complement the meal’s overall taste without overpowering it.
- Fruit Infused Sparkling Water:
- Create a refreshing mocktail by infusing sparkling water with slices of citrus fruits, berries, and mint.
- Homemade Lemonade:
- Freshly squeezed lemonade, sweetened to taste, provides a classic and family-friendly beverage option.
- Iced Herbal Tea:
- Brew a caffeine-free herbal tea, chill it, and serve over ice for a flavorful and hydrating choice.
Wine, Cocktail, & Beer Pairings
Remember, personal preferences play a role, so feel free to explore and discover your favorite pairings!
Wine Pairings:
- Chardonnay:
- The buttery notes of Chardonnay complement the savory and slightly spicy elements of blackened dishes.
- Zinfandel:
- Zinfandel’s bold fruitiness can stand up to the robust flavors of blackened meats, creating a harmonious pairing.
- Rosé:
- A dry rosé with its refreshing acidity can provide a delightful contrast, especially with blackened seafood or chicken.
Cocktail Pairings:
- Classic Mojito: A non-alcoholic version with lime, mint, and soda complements the seasoning’s flavors without competing.
- Spicy Ginger Beer Mule: The ginger’s kick enhances the spiciness of the blackening seasoning, creating a zesty pairing.
- Bloody Mary: Bloody Mary, with its tomato base and savory spices, aligns well with the seasoned dishes.
Beer Pairings:
- IPA (India Pale Ale): The hoppy bitterness of an IPA can cut through the richness of blackened meats, providing a satisfying contrast.
- Wheat Beer: A light and refreshing wheat beer complements the spice without overpowering, making it a versatile choice.
- Amber Ale: The maltiness of an amber ale pairs well with the savory and slightly sweet notes of blackened dishes.
Blackening Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Paprika Hot, smoked, or sweet.
- 1/2 tsp Dried Thyme
- 1/2 tsp Dried Parsley
- 1-1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1-1/2 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Salt fine
- 1 tsp Cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
- Increase seasoning amounts like ground pepper, cayenne, and herbs to suit your taste buds.
- Store in an air-tight container or spice jar for up to 6 months.