Easy Homemade Blackening Seasoning

I have always liked spicy foods but I remember one dish in particular that I loved as a kid: blackened salmon!  My easy homemade blackening seasoning is a staple that I always have a batch of in the pantry.

The method called blackening is a process where you cook fish or other proteins coated in this seasoning blend over very high heat.  It produces a blackened appearance because the spices cook until black in color.

The black color does not indicate that they are burnt, just that the spices have been toasted to the extreme making the depth of flavors even greater.

I make my homemade blackening seasoning with a moderate amount of cayenne pepper; use more if you want it very spicy or omit it for a mild version.  I also use a moderate amount of salt.  When you make your own homemade blackening seasoning, you can adjust salt to taste.

Ways to use this Easy Homemade Blackening Seasoning:

1. Fish: Coat fish with blackening seasoning and cook over high heat in a buttered skillet.  Fish should be opaque and flakey when finished.  The exact time will depend on the thickness of the fillet.
2. Shrimp: Coat shrimp with blackening seasoning and cook over high heat in a buttered skillet for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque.
3. Tofu: Press tofu to drain the water.  Slice or cube to your desired size (thiner slices will get crispier). Coat with blackening seasoning and cook in an oiled skillet over high heat.  To acheive a good texture, cook for 5 minutes, flip, and cook another 5 minutes.
4. Burgers: Form a burger or veggie burger and lightly dredge in blackening seasoning.  Cook as usual.
5. Veggies: Coat vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or mushrooms with cooking spray and the blackening seasoning and roast, grill, or pan sear to desired degree.
6. Other Vegan Ideas: I have not tried it, but I’m certain you could use this seasoning on chickpeas or tempeh.  Cook over high heat in an oiled skillet to blacken.
7. Other Meat Ideas: I don’t eat meat, but I know that this seasoning can be used on things like steak or chicken.
8. Serve with Blue Cheese: Black and Blue is a classic flavor combination.  Simply cook your favorite protein with the blackening seasoning and top with blue cheese when you flip so that it has time to melt!
9. Make a bowl: put your cooked veggies or proteins into a bowl meal like I did in this Blackened Fish Burrito Bowl recipe.

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