Name: Homemade Cajun Seasoning Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 4 min
Ingredients: 2 Tbsp Paprika; 2 Tbsp Garlic Powder; 2 Tbsp Dried Oregano; 1 Tbsp Kosher Salt; 1 Tbsp Onion Powder; 2 tsp Ground Black Pepper; 2 tsp Cayenne

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History of Cajun Seasoning, People, and Culture

Cajun cooking is known for its spiciness and heartiness. This combination of flavor and style of cooking is credited from Acadians fleeing to the southern parts of the US, predominantly New Orleans, Louisiana. Acadians were French settlers in north America. These Canadian immigrants brought with them their French influences in the 18^th century.

Homemade Cajun Seasoning Recipe in a jar labeled cajun with white tape.

Throughout the following forty years, the Acadians’ refusal to surrender turned into a political and strict danger. The British government held onto ranches, consumed towns, and ousted Acadian families. Families were isolated as British officers stacked them onto ships with various objections.

Relatives were dispatched all over from New York toward the West Indies. Some were sent down south to the Louisiana regions. Numerous Acadians discovered some acknowledgment in Louisiana, with its solid French foundation and Catholic legacy. Numerous relatives were brought together there as they tried to find each other.

It is during this time that the Acadians became known as “Cajuns”, and these Cajuns began to develop their own lifestyle in the swamps of Louisiana. This idea became a full-blown cuisine after cultural influences and geographical changes molded this concept over many years. This spice is not to be mistaken for creole seasoning which has some subtle differences. Mostly the number of dried herbs supply the difference, creole tends to have more.

So whats cajun seasoning ?

A cajun seasoning recipe is a blend of herbs and spices that conveys a particular spicy and zesty flavor profile.

Cajun seasoning is used to accentuate the foods it is put on. Most people use this seasoning very liberally. It is particularly good grilled, sautéed, or cooked into soups and sauces. Here are a few examples of how to use Cajun seasonings.

Is cajun seasoning spicy?

Some cajun seasoning recipes can be very spicy. This cajun seasoning recipe is more on the milder side. If you arent looking for too much kick then this is the recipe for you!

Cajun Seasoning in a clear jar with a white lid and tape labeled cajun

Whats Cajun seasoning used for?

Pasta

Pasta is a great medium for this homemade cajun seasoning. Toast off this spice in butter then add your noodles, or you can just sprinkle on top!

Vegetables

From my experiences this cajun seasoning is delicious on roasted potatoes. Roasted red potatoes would be the traditional choice but virtually any potato will do. Even though potatoes may be the most popular choice, they definitely are not the only choice for this versatile rub.

Broccoli, Onions, Squash (summer or winter), cauliflower, and peppers are all popular choices when Cajun is concerned. Like I said earlier this spice is very versatile and compliments almost anything.

Tofu and Tempeh

If you struggle making tofu and tempeh taste good, then this homemade cajun seasoning is a good tool for your arsenal. Season your tofu/tempeh with this Cajun spice and sear it in a pan or roast in the oven. With a touch of lemon juice, you will have some dynamite flavor!

Tricks and Tips for The Best Homemade Cajun Seasoning Recipe

Quality of Ingredients

When using seasonings to boost up the flavor in your recipes, you should always seek the best spices to mix. Spices can be a little expensive, but you are paying for quality and freshness. So, keep that in mind when you a thinking about going with the cheaper alternative.

Also think about specialized spices. Instead of buying chili powder, buy the smokey chipotle powder or the dark chili powder. If a recipe calls for paprika, buy the smoked paprika or the sweet pimenton. These are ways to separate yourself from the rest.

Homemade cajun seasoning recipe on a white background with a green portion scoop.

Applications

Think about how you are going to use these spices in your recipes, it may change how you prepare the mixes themselves. If you are putting the spices on chips or fries, if it best to blend the spices in a blender into a fine powder to they can grab ahold of the potato better. If the spices have dried herbs in them, then it is best to add them in the beginning stages of your recipes to increase the amount of time the herbs are cooked.

Dried herbs release their flavors over time. If you like more spice in your seasoning, then bump up the cayenne or chili powder. This can give you the desired effect you are looking for.

Storage

Its best to store your spices in airtight containers to preserve freshness. It is also best to keep spices in a dark area. A container over the oven may be advantageous, but since spices and flavors decay when presented to warmth, light, and dampness, it is not the best spot to keep them.

The best stockpiling temperature for spices and flavors is one that is genuinely steady and under 70 degrees Fahrenheit. If you store flavors in the cooler or fridge, then return them speedily after use.

A decent stockpiling framework keeps spices and flavors dry and in obscurity too. Golden glass containers with hermetically sealed covers are ideal. You may likewise keep them in a cabinet or cabinet, spread the containers with enormous dark names or utilize a window ornament to cover them when not being used. Basically, store your spices and flavors in perfect, impermeable compartments, away from warmth and light and handle them mindfully.

Shelf Life

Spices that have been in your cabinet for a while may look ok, but you need to check the use by date. Using out of date spices is not the end of the world, but it will definitely affect the end result. Your food will seem to fall flat or have a stale taste/ aroma. Spices stay fresh for about 6 months to a year. Try to keep your collection constantly rotating.

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