This homemade cajun spice mix is supremely savory, zesty, and not too spicy! Sure to kick up the flavor in any dish.
Cajun seasoning is one of my all time favorite spice blends for punching up the flavor of everything from seafood to rice to veggies and soups. I currently have no less than 6 jars of store-bought different cajun spice blends in my spice drawer right now, do you have one? Even if you do, I promise homemade is better. I have tried them all and time and time again I come back to this simple homemade version.
Today, we're going to jazz up your kitchen with a Cajun Spice Mix that'll make your taste buds do a happy dance! Say goodbye to bland and hello to bold. Trust me, this ain't your average seasoning – it's the flavor bomb your dishes have been begging for. So, buckle up and get ready to unleash some mouthwatering magic!
You'll Love this Homemade Cajun Seasoning
- Did you just start making a recipe and it calls for cajun seasoning? But wait, you open your spice drawer and realize you don't have any! No problem! This is the best substitute for store-bought cajun seasoning.
- A cajun spice blend that will not set your mouth on fire. This is a cajun spice blend that is bursting with flavor, not just heat. Yes, there is some cayenne pepper, but a mild amount so you can control the spice in your dish.
- Salt-free, I like to decide how much salt to add to a dish so I rarely add salt to my spice mixes.
- You know what makes this Cajun Spice Mix even cooler? It's made with simple ingredients that pack a serious flavor punch. Forget those store-bought blends with additives and mysterious stuff. Our DIY version is all about real, honest, spices – hello antioxidant power! (see below for my nutrition tip on spices)
Let's Get Mixing!
Cajun Seasoning, a mini lesson
But first… a mini-lesson. What is cajun seasoning? Hailing from Louisiana, Cajun cooking has been shaped by French culinary techniques and African flavors, resulting in a unique fusion of tastes. Cajun seasoning is at the heart of Cajun cuisine and is a spicy blend of a variety of spices (everyone has their own special spin!) typically consisting of paprika, garlic, oregano, cayenne, and pepper.
What makes this cajun seasoning unique
My version of cajun spice mix is not too spicy (you can always add more cayenne in each dish as your taste buds desire) and does not include salt. This leaves room for individual preferences while still delivering a unique punch of flavor!
Cajun Spice Mix Ingredients
Now, let's rally the spice posse – all the bold ingredients you need to rock this Cajun party. Detailed measurements and ingredients can be found within the recipe card at the end of this post.
- paprika (the boss of the blend!)
- garlic powder (for that garlicky punch)
- thyme (a hint of earthy goodness)
- oregano (for that herbal kick)
- cayenne pepper (warning: it's spicy!)
- black pepper (to keep things grounded)
Simple Tools You'll Need
- Small mixing bowl
- Mini whisk
- Cute container to keep your spice mix in! I love these mini weck jars (shown in all photos)
Whip Up Your Own Spice Mix, Here is How
Grab a bowl and toss all your spice posse in there. Stir, shake, and mix like a pro until everything's buddies in flavor crime. Trust your gut – if you want more heat, add more cayenne, my recommendation is to keep the recipe as is and add heat as each dish requires/ deserves.
How to Use Homemade Cajun Spice Mix
Cajun spice is incredibly versatile and can be used to add a burst of flavor to a wide range of dishes. Here are several recipe examples showcasing different ways you can use Cajun spice.
Cajun Grilled Shrimp:
- Toss large shrimp with Cajun spice, a bit of olive oil, and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them over medium-high heat until cooked through.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a delicious and easy summer meal.
Cajun Blackened Chicken:
- Rub boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs with Cajun spice, making sure to coat both sides evenly.
- Heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until smoking hot.
- Add a little oil to the skillet and cook the chicken for a few minutes on each side until the outside becomes charred and the chicken is cooked through.
- Slice the blackened chicken and serve with rice and sautéed vegetables for a satisfying dinner.
Cajun Red Beans and Rice:
- Cook dried red beans (soaked overnight) in a pot with water, chopped onions, bell peppers, celery, and Cajun spice.
- Once the beans are tender, mash some of them to thicken the broth, and add sliced andouille sausage.
- Continue to simmer until the flavors meld together, and the sausage is fully cooked.
- Serve the red beans over steamed white rice and garnish with chopped green onions.
Cajun Roasted Vegetables:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Toss a mix of chopped vegetables (e.g., sweet potatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, and onions) with Cajun spice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the seasoned vegetables on the baking sheet and roast in the oven until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Serve as a side dish or mix with cooked quinoa for a delicious vegetarian bowl.
Cajun Fish Tacos:
- Season white fish fillets (e.g., tilapia or cod) with Cajun spice, salt, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- Pan-fry the fish until it's cooked and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Serve the Cajun-spiced fish in soft tortillas with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and a drizzle of spicy mayo or crema.
Cajun Corn on the Cob:
- Mix softened butter with Cajun spice and a pinch of salt.
- Rub the Cajun butter all over freshly grilled or boiled corn on the cob.
- Sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for an extra burst of flavor.
These are just a few examples, but you can get creative and use Cajun spice in various other ways, such as in soups, stews, pasta dishes, and even as a seasoning for popcorn! Adjust the amount of Cajun spice according to your spice tolerance.
How to Store Spice Mix
- STORAGE – Store in a sealed container for up to 1 year.
Abra's Nutrition Tip – Let's Talk Spices!
My friends do not sleep on the health benefits of spices!
Incorporating dried spices into one's diet can offer notable nutritional benefits. These concentrated flavorings, derived from various plant sources, provide an array of essential vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Dried spices often exhibit potent antioxidant properties due to their high content of polyphenolic compounds, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids. These antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress and its associated risks. Moreover, many dried spices are renowned for their anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to the maintenance of overall health.
Embracing a diverse range of dried spices in cooking can further encourage the consumption of these valuable bioactive compounds, supporting a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet.
MORE DIY SPICE BLEND RECIPES:
Nashville Style Hot Chicken Spice Blend
I can’t wait for you to try this cajun spice mix! When you make it, snap a photo and tag me on Instagram @abrapappa or use the hashtag #abraskitchen so I can feature your photo!
If you’ve tried this recipe, don’t forget to rate it and leave a comment below. I love to hear from people who’ve made my recipes!
Cajun Spice Mix
Ingredients
- 3 tbsp paprika
- 2 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tbsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne
Instructions
- Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl until evenly combined.
- Use immediately or store in an airtight container away from heat and light for up to 1 year.
Jordan Schehr says
This never fails. I use this for my gumbo.
Louis Pompedieu says
This is legit! I can testify as a native of New Orleans.