This warming seasoning will add some zest to your favorite dishes.
Use it on meats, seafood, even vegetables for a special little kick.
Homemade spice mixes offer up more flavor and aroma than their store-bought counterparts.
Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
Blackened seasoning can be described ashotbut not necessarily spicyunless you increase the amount of cayenne.
(And you should, if you like a spicier flavor.)
What Does Blackening Mean in Cooking?
Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
This renders a spice crust indicative of a blackened item.
Some people dip the food to be blackened in butter before dredging in the spices.
Otherwise, you could end up with dry, dusty spots of spice mix that isn’t properly cooked.
Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
Oil works, but using butter helps the blackened food develop a better crust.
Use 1 1/2 tablespoons to season each pound of meat.
For fish, use 2 teaspoons per eight ounces.
Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
And use 2 tablespoons per each 1 1/2 lbs of potatoes.
Serve alongside broccoli or roasted asparagus.
What Does Blackened Seasoning Taste Like?
Credit:Victor Protasio, Food Stylist: Margaret Dickey, Prop Stylist: Christina Daley
This seasoning blend is best described as zesty.
Given the significant amounts of cayenne and paprika, it has a warming effect.
It is a bit spicy, but not overpoweringly so.
(Note: The spiciness of the seasoning tends to be more noticeable on potatoes than on fish.)
Make seasning mix:
Stir together all ingredients in a small bowl or jar.
Use immediately, or seal tightly and store at room temperature up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cajun seasoningand blackened seasoning are similar enough that the terms are often used interchangeably.
Blackening seasoning is a combination of chili powders, herbs, and spices.
Gently press to help the seasoning adhere to the food before putting it in the pan.
Blackening is done with herbs and spices and a cooking technique that creates a very dark brown crust.
