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Cajun seasoning is a rustic seasoning blend native to Louisiana State in the USA. Cajun seasoning can be used for almost every meal. Everyone tends to have their own spin on it. You can also adjust the measurement of ingredients to suit your taste.
For example, if you enjoy hotter Cajun seasoning, you can add more pepper to your recipe. But what is Cajun seasoning made of? Generally, Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend featuring up to 10 ingredients such as; paprika, cayenne, etc.
In this article, we’re going show you the top 10 ingredients in Cajun seasoning, and if you’re also wondering what Cajun seasoning is used for, we’ll also discuss that today.
Let’s get started!
What Is Cajun Seasoning Made Of?
Cajun seasoning is known for its peculiar and distinctive taste. It is excellent on every kind of food, especially fries. In terms of what Cajun seasoning is made of, the ingredients used in Cajun seasoning include:
1. Garlic powder
Garlic powder is gotten from dried garlic. Drying garlic has been known to increase the life span for the usage of garlic. It is, however, even better when the garlic is ground and stored in a jar for use during cooking.
Dried and ground garlic seems to have a deeper taste and aroma than fresh garlic. Plus, drying and grinding it is a great way of preserving your garlic.
2. Kosher salt
Kosher salt, also known as kitchen salt, is specifically used for cooking. You should add salt proportional to the amount of Cajun seasoning you are making.
For example, if you are using two teaspoons of garlic powder, you should also use two spoons of kosher salt.
3. Italian seasoning
Italian seasoning is made from a mixture of dried Italian-inspired herbs such as oregano, rosemary, thyme, basil, and marjoram.
Italian seasoning is a combination of ground herbs like basil, garlic powder, sage, oregano, rosemary, thyme, or coriander.
Italian seasoning varies by whoever is making it. They may add ingredients and herbs that are uncommon and not included on this list.
4. Paprika
This spice is made from specifically red pepper. As such, it is also red in color. It adds a hot spiciness to your Cajun seasoning. Measure with care before adding to the mix.
5. Onion powder
This is Dried onions that have been ground and blended to achieve the powdery feel. It is also an excellent way of preserving onions.
6. Ground black pepper
This ingredient is gotten from peppercorn, which is a type of pepper. It is usually dark or dark red and is used as a spice for cooking. You can achieve the ground black pepper by grinding or blending it.
7. Ground white pepper
White pepper has a milder taste than black pepper. It also has a less complex flavor. This is not a bad thing, as its own preference is a little refined and straightforward.
8. Dried oregano
Oreganos is from the mint family. Just like the mint we are all familiar with, it has a peppery after taste. And also, a bitter yet astringent taste. It improves the taste of Cajun seasoning.
9. Dried Thyme
As a way of preservation, thyme is dried out. The fresh ones have a sharper and deeper taste and aroma than the dried ones. Yet, the dried thyme also rises to the occasion and makes your meal even better.
10. Cayenne
Cayenne which is a type of pepper, has metabolism-boosting properties. It increases the heat in the body, and naturally, you tend to sweat and burn fat.
What Is Cajun Seasoning Used For?
What is Cajun seasoning used for? Well, Cajun seasoning has been used as a kitchen necessity for amping everything up. Add Cajun seasoning to your meal, and it will definitely improve the quality of your meal.
It is such a versatile seasoning that it can be used for almost every meal. Cajun seasoning can be used for the following:
1. Proteins
Proteins are gotten from animals and plants. They are a great addition to your diet. Some examples of proteins are chicken, oven fries, fish, shellfish, shrimp, pork, steak, and tofu. You can add Cajun seasoning to your chicken or steak, or pork.
You can do this by sprinkling the seasoning over your protein before cooking, frying, roasting, or baking it.
2. Dips
Dips have been known for adding texture to your meals. Whether cut up in small or big sizes, they always compliment Cajun seasoning. Examples of these dips are; Spinach artichoke, dip hummus, guacamole, and queso.
3. Bread and crackers
You can use Cajun seasoning on any type of bread. The bread of crackers has to be fresh out of the oven and still hot. This way, the seasoning settles better.
4. Veggies
You can mix your Cajun seasoning in Greek yogurt and enjoy it with your veggies. Your Veggies can also be roasted or stir-fried, and the Cajun seasoning sprinkled over it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Good Substitute For Cajun Seasoning?
Creole seasoning can be used as a substitute for Cajun seasoning. However, we recommend you make your own Cajun seasoning using the ingredients in your kitchen.
What Is The Best Brand Of Cajun Seasoning?
Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning, McCormick Culinary Bayou Cajun Seasoning, Louisiana Crawfish Shrimp & Crab Boil Seasoning, and Slap Ya Mama Louisiana Style Cajun Seasoning are some of the best brands of Cajun seasoning.
Is Cajun Seasoning The Same As Chili Powder?
While chili powder is a necessary ingredient in making Cajun seasoning, it is not the same as Cajun seasoning.
Is Cayenne the Same As Cajun?
While cayenne is the primary heat source for Cajun spices, it is not the same as Cajun seasoning. The heat level in cayenne is noticeably higher than in Cajun.
Read Also:
- What is the Best Substitute For Creole Seasoning?
- What Is Seafood Seasoning Made Of?
- What Is Creole Seasoning Made Of?
- What Is Italian Seasoning Made Of?
- Is Creole Seasoning The Same As Cajun Seasoning?
Conclusion
What is Cajun seasoning made of? All the ingredients used in making Cajun seasoning are what makes it peculiar. Cajun seasoning is peculiar according to the taste of whoever is causing it. Cajun pepper still has a lingering distinctive taste that can only be appreciated.
Are you thinking of making your own Cajun seasoning? Well, nothing stops you. You can easily use what we listed in the subheading ‘what is a Cajun seasoning made of’ to make your own Cajun seasoning.