Name: emeril's cajun seasoning recipe
Prep time: 7 min
Total time: 7 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons paprika, for vibrant color and warm foundational flavor; 1 tablespoon smoked paprika, adds deep smoky undertones; 2 tablespoons fine sea salt, to brighten and enhance flavors (or kosher salt by weight); 1 tablespoon garlic powder, for an essential aromatic and pungent base; 0.5 tablespoon onion powder, contributes subtle sweetness and depth; 0.5 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper, for sharp spicy warmth and fresh aroma; 0.5 tablespoon cayenne pepper, adjust to preferred heat level; 0.5 tablespoon dried oregano, for earthy, slightly peppery and aromatic notes; 0.5 tablespoon dried thyme, adds savory, subtly minty and herbaceous character; 0.75 tablespoon smoked ancho chili powder, brings rich, mild heat with complex, fruity undertones; 1 tablespoon dried orange zest, from about 1 large orange, air-dried until brittle

Description

This Emeril’s Cajun seasoning recipe is a vibrant, savory, and slightly spicy homemade spice blend perfect for adding bold flavor to weeknight meals and various dishes, ensuring fresh taste without compromise.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tablespoons paprika, for vibrant color and warm foundational flavor
1 tablespoon smoked paprika, adds deep smoky undertones
2 tablespoons fine sea salt, to brighten and enhance flavors (or kosher salt by weight)
1 tablespoon garlic powder, for an essential aromatic and pungent base
0.5 tablespoon onion powder, contributes subtle sweetness and depth
0.5 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper, for sharp spicy warmth and fresh aroma
0.5 tablespoon cayenne pepper, adjust to preferred heat level
0.5 tablespoon dried oregano, for earthy, slightly peppery and aromatic notes
0.5 tablespoon dried thyme, adds savory, subtly minty and herbaceous character
0.75 tablespoon smoked ancho chili powder, brings rich, mild heat with complex, fruity undertones
1 tablespoon dried orange zest, from about 1 large orange, air-dried until brittle

Instructions

Measure All Ingredients: Measure all dry ingredients into a medium-sized mixing bowl, ensuring finely broken or lightly crushed dried orange zest.
Combine Thoroughly: Whisk or spoon all spices and zest for at least 2-3 minutes until uniform, noting the distinct orange flecks distributed throughout.
Refine (Optional): Transfer mixture to a spice grinder or food processor and pulse 3-4 times for a finer blend; avoid over-processing if a coarser texture is preferred.
Store Properly: Transfer the finished blend to a clean, airtight glass jar and store in a cool, dark place for optimal freshness and potency.

Notes

Choose high-quality, organic spices for peak freshness. Control sodium by starting with less salt (around 1.5 tablespoons) then adjust when cooking. To prevent clumping, ensure the storage jar is completely dry and kept in a cool, dark pantry. Always use fresh spices for potency; if zest isn’t crushing well, pulse it separately before combining.

Prep Time: 7 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Seasoning
Method: Mixing, Blending
Cuisine: Cajun, American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 teaspoon (2 g)
Calories: 8 calories
Sugar: 0.2 g
Sodium: 168 mg
Fat: 0.2 g
Saturated Fat: 0 g
Unsaturated Fat: 0.2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 1.5 g
Fiber: 0.5 g
Protein: 0.2 g
Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Cajun seasoning, Emeril's recipe, homemade spices, easy dinner, flavorful blend, spicy, savory, weeknight meals, dried orange zest