If you’re looking for big and bold flavors, look no further than this blackened seasoning blend. It is guaranteed to deliver the spiciness you crave.
Blackening seasoning, aka “Blackened seasoning”, is a mixture of chili powders, herbs and spices. It is spicy and piquant, very much a cross between Cajun and Creole seasoning blends. If you enjoy Cajun and Creole cooking, you’ll love blackening as well.
The seasoning is “spicy” for sure, but not overly hot, so if you’re looking for that huge flavor without too much of a heat blast, this is the perfect blend. However, you can easily adjust it to your own heat preferences by adding other spices, to make it your own.
What Is Blackening?
Blackening is the process of cooking fish, shrimp, or other foods that are dipped in butter and seasoned, then seared over high heat, usually in a cast iron skillet. The combination of butter, high heat, and seasoning develops a telltale dark crust on the meat that gives blackened foods its characteristic look and flavour.
How To Blacken Foods
The process is quick and easy. Simply dredge or brush your protein in melted butter, then season heavily with blackening seasoning. Heat a cast iron pan to medium-high heat or high heat, then set the meat into the pan. You’re looking for a dark, crusty char on each side of the protein.
Cooking usually only takes a few minutes per side. It’s a very popular cooking technique for fish and shrimp, though you can realistically blacken anything from chicken to beef to vegetables.
Blackened Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 ½ teaspoons oregano
- 2 tablespoons garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons onion powder
- ½ tablespoon parsley crushed
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
Instructions
- Combine all the ingredients in a bowl, or jar and stir so that all the ingredients have been fully combined.
- Store in any airtight container (or zip lock bag) and use as needed.
