Cajun Seasoning Blend

          Cajun seasoning is by far my favorite spice blend.  I love many blends, from numerous cultures, garam masala, five spice, and Ras al Hanout, to name a few.  But none of the others, fragrant and complex though they may be, speaks to my little soul the way that Cajun seasoning does.  The mere scent of it, upon the opening of the jar, induces in me both frissons of hunger and a meditative calm.  An interesting combination that suits me nicely.  And the taste of it, so subtle and bold, warm, fragrant, and faintly herbal, with the sharp kick of peppers mellowed by onion and garlic, is really indescribable to the uninitiated.  So perhaps all I should say about it is, mon Dieu!

          I use this blend for many dishes, including those for which it was originally intended, gumbo, dirty rice, and jambalaya, among many others, as well as newer dishes such as Shrimp and Sausage with Creole Mustard Sauce.  That is just the beginning, however.  I sprinkle it over scrambled eggs, massage it into catfish fillets headed for the grill, and blend it with just enough oil to make a paste rub for roasted chicken.  It is great mixed with mayo or yogurt as a sandwich spread or dip.  It accentuates meat, vegetables, and grains.  It couldn’t be more versatile.

          I know what you’re thinking.  Another Cajun seasoning blend recipe?  Why, why, WHY??  So many can be found on the internet, that posting yet another seems like throwing an additional alligator in the swamp.  But let me assure you, kind readers, that this is the best of them all.  I have spent years perfecting just the right formula.  Some Cajun blends are too salty, while others are too hot.  In either case the strong note overpowers the more subtle flavors.  But this blend contains the perfect ratio of components.  If you make a batch, likely from seasonings you already have in your pantry, I guarantee that you will find many reasons and excuses to use it. 

Cajun Seasoning Blend

2 T salt

2 T paprika

1/2 T cayenne pepper

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp white pepper

1 1/2 T onion powder

1 T garlic powder

2 tsp dried basil

1 tsp chili powder

1/4 tsp dried thyme

1/4 tsp ground mustard

1/8 tsp ground cloves

          Mix together well.  Sprinkle on any ol’ ting.