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Cooking is fun! But sometimes, you might get confused as to the type of seasoning to use for a particular dish. This post will focus on two seasonings with certain differences and similarities, creole seasoning vs Old Bay?
First of all, both seasonings have different origins – Old Bay seasoning belongs to Maryland, and Creole seasoning is from New Orleans, and it’s one of Louisiana’s most important spice blends.
If you fall into the segment of people who are confused about these two seasonings, then this post will go a long way in clearing up the confusion.
Another question that follows the creole seasoning and old bay dilemma is whether they can substitute for each other. Admittedly, both seasons share certain similarities.
Let’s find out their key differences and similarities!
Creole Seasoning Vs Old Bay
While creole seasoning and Old Bay can be used interchangeably, they have specific areas of differences that are outlined below:
1. Blend of make-up
Old Bay seasoning is a product of McCormick & Company, a U.S. spice company, and has a precise ingredient. Creole seasoning is a more generic term.
2. Flavor And Ingredients
Old Bay Seasoning offers a complex flavor profile as a result of its long list of ingredients. Creole seasoning blend contains far fewer spices than in Old Bay seasoning.
4. Heat Level
Old Bay’s flavor profile is relatively mild, with small quantities of each ingredient (and the hottest being paprika) also applies to creole seasoning. The color in creole seasoning is usually the result of mild paprika.
When To Use Creole Seasoning
Creole seasoning can be made in the comfort of your home, and it’s much preferable to store-bought creole seasoning.
Creole seasoning is quite versatile and can be used for a myriad of dishes like eggs, pasta salads, potato salads, sprinkled on French fries and potatoes, popcorn, dry rub, marinade, grilled meats, poultry, and seafood, vegetables, whisked into your vinaigrette for a zesty dressing.
Creole seasoning is so versatile that you can use it virtually any meal that requires a flavor boost!
When To Use Old Bay Seasoning
Like creole seasoning, Old Bay is versatile and can be used unconventionally to spice up a bloody Mary! If you’ve had good seafood, then you’ve probably had Old Bay.
You can sprinkle Old Bay on top of dinner rolls before sticking them in the oven or even add a pinch to some melon slices!
Are you making popcorn? Toss it in or stir it into cream cheese and make spiced-up cucumber sandwiches.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Difference Between Old Bay Seasoning And Cajun Seasoning?
While Old Bay and Cajun seasoning can be used interchangeably, Old Bay Seasoning offers a complex flavor profile due to its long list of ingredients, while most Cajun seasoning blends have far fewer spices.
Cajun seasoning usually contains fewer than 10 component spices.
What Can I Substitute For Creole Seasoning?
Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, and Greek seasoning are suitable substitutes for creole seasoning, although they may differ in flavor.
What Can I Use In Place Of Old Bay Seasoning?
You can either make your own homemade Old Bay seasoning by combining 1 tablespoon celery salt, 3 whole bay leaves, 3/4 teaspoon brown mustard seeds, 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns, 10 allspice berries, 10 whole cloves, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika.
Or substitute it with Cajun or Creole Seasoning.
Is Tony Chachere’s The Same As Old Bay?
Tony Chachere is not the same as Old Bay, but Tony Chachere’s Creole Seasoning is sometimes used instead of Old Bay, which inspired this recipe.
Read Also:
- Tomato Puree Vs Crushed Tomatoes
- Red Pepper Flakes Vs Chili Flakes
- How To Turn Diced Tomatoes Into Stewed Tomatoes
Conclusion
The question remains, creole seasoning vs. old Bay? While Old Bay seasoning has some of the same ingredients that you will see in many Creole seasoning blends, there are some distinctive features between the two.
However, the good news is that both seasonings can be used interchangeably depending on your dish and the flavor you are going for! You can build upon Old Bay’s foundation since it includes the celery seed and paprika you will find in most Creole seasoning blends.
