Homemade All-Purpose Seasoning Blend Recipe
Introduction:
Creating your own homemade all-purpose seasoning blend is not only cost-effective but also allows you to customize the flavors to suit your taste preferences. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a versatile seasoning mix that adds depth and flavor to a variety of dishes. Follow along for a step-by-step guide to making this essential pantry staple.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
Instructions:
- Prepare Your Tools: Gather a medium-sized bowl, a gallon-sized plastic bag with a zip top, a pair of scissors, and a spice jar with a shaker-type top.
- Mix the Seasonings: In the bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of kosher salt and 2 teaspoons of brown sugar. Add 1/4 teaspoon each of garlic powder, garlic salt, onion powder, and turmeric. Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon each of paprika and chili powder. Finally, add 1 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper.
- Blend the Ingredients: Gently stir the mixture in the bowl to ensure all the seasonings are evenly incorporated.
- Transfer to Plastic Bag: Pour the seasoned blend into a gallon-sized plastic bag and seal it. Shake the bag vigorously to blend the seasonings thoroughly.
- Prepare the Spice Jar: Cut a small diagonal edge off one of the bottom corners of the plastic bag. This opening should be just large enough to fit into the empty spice jar.
- Fill the Spice Jar: Carefully empty the blended seasonings from the plastic bag into the spice container using the cut corner. Use a funnel if necessary to prevent spills.
Tips:
- Customize the seasoning blend by adjusting the quantities of individual spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Store the homemade seasoning blend in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain its freshness and flavor.
- Use the seasoning blend as a rub for meats, poultry, or seafood before grilling, roasting, or pan-searing.
- Sprinkle the seasoning mix over vegetables before roasting or sautéing for added flavor.
- Experiment with adding dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the blend for additional depth of flavor.
FAQs:
- How long does the homemade seasoning blend last?
- When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, the seasoning blend can last for several months without losing its potency.
- Can I use regular white sugar instead of brown sugar?
- Yes, you can substitute white sugar for brown sugar in this recipe, but keep in mind that brown sugar adds a slightly caramelized flavor to the blend.
- Is it necessary to grind the black pepper fresh?
- Using freshly ground black pepper yields the best flavor, but pre-ground pepper can also be used if that’s what you have on hand.
