Blackened seasoning, also called blackening spice or Cajun seasoning, is a spice mixture used to traditionally season fish, shellfish, meat, and poultry. One of the first Chefs to really use and popularize blackened spice was Paul Prudhomme from New Orleans in the 1980's. He ran multiple successful restaurants and is also credited with creating the Turducken!
Most blackening spice blends are variations of the same theme, using readily available spices from the pantry to create a strong and spicy mix with a recognizable Cajun flair. Almost all blackened spice mixes include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Cayenne pepper, salt, black pepper, and a blend of various herbs depending on the Chef's preferences. Here is our tried and tested blackened spice seasoning mix.
The most often blackened meats are fish and shellfish, as they are quick to cook in a cast iron skillet. Blackening other meats works too, but you will need to finish the thicker cuts, such as steak or chicken, in a hot oven to reach the proper internal temperature without actually burning the spice in the pan.
For some inspiration, check out our Blackened Shrimp Skewers. They are a great and simple example of blackened shellfish that will show you how to properly blacken fish and seafood at home with Cajun seasoning.
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How To Make Your Own Blackened Seasoning
Creating your own blackened seasoning is easy, and in many cases cheaper than buying a store-bought mix. If you cook regularly, you will most likely already have all the required ingredients on hand. I've shared the blackening spice blend I use at home below, but feel free to adjust or adapt the recipe to suit your own tastes!
You'll need:
- 5 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 4 teaspoons sea salt
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 1.5 teaspoons Cayenne pepper (reduce this amount if you prefer a milder spice, or swap for chipotle powder)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Mix all the spices together in a bowl and then store in an airtight glass jar.
Now wasn't that easy!
Use the blackening spice to add a Cajun flair to any meat or seafood, and even roasted vegetables! To find out how to properly use and cook with blackened seasoning, check out these Blackened Shrimps!
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Recipe
Homemade Blackened Seasoning (Cajun Seasoning)
Ingredients
- 5 tablespoons paprika
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 4 teaspoons sea salt
- 4 teaspoons black pepper
- 1.5 teaspoons Cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
Instructions
- Mix all the spices together in a bowl and store in an airtight glass container.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition info is auto-generated. This information is an estimate; if you are on a special diet, please use your own calculations.
Kim
Made a batch of this blackened seasoning for salmon and it was fantastic — smoky, a little spicy, and so much better than anything store-bought. I love that I can adjust the heat to my taste. Already used it on chicken and shrimp too. Will definitely be keeping this on hand!