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10+ Creative Alternatives to Cajun Seasoning to Spice Up Your Dishes

10+ Creative Alternatives to Cajun Seasoning to Spice Up Your Dishes

Have you ever been in the middle of preparing a delicious dish only to find that you’ve run out of Cajun seasoning? Don’t worry! There are plenty of alternatives you can use to create that bold, flavorful taste that Cajun seasoning is known for.

Cajun seasoning is a spice blend that has its roots in Louisiana, influenced by French, African, and Native American cuisines. It typically includes ingredients such as paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and sometimes salt. The unique combination of spices gives Cajun seasoning its distinctive flavor, which adds a kick to a variety of dishes.

Old Bay Seasoning

OLD BAY Seasoning, 6 oz

A popular East Coast seasoning blend, Old Bay is known for its use in seafood dishes, particularly in Maryland. It contains a mix of spices such as celery salt, paprika, and black pepper, making it a suitable alternative to Cajun seasoning.

Garam Masala

McCormick Gourmet Garam Masala Blend, 1.7 oz

Originating from India, Garam Masala is a warm and aromatic blend of spices like cumin, coriander, cardamom, cinnamon, and cloves. While not as spicy as Cajun seasoning, it can add depth and complexity to various dishes.

Chinese Five Spice

Frontier Five Spice Powder, 1.92-Ounce Bottle

A staple in Chinese cuisine, this blend consists of star anise, cloves, cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds. It offers a unique combination of sweet, sour, bitter, and spicy flavors that can be used as an alternative to Cajun seasoning in some recipes.

Herbes de Provence

Badia Herbes De Provence Container, 8 oz

A fragrant mix of dried herbs from the Provence region in France, Herbes de Provence typically includes rosemary, thyme, oregano, marjoram, and sometimes lavender. While not as spicy as Cajun seasoning, it can add a pleasant herbal note to dishes.

Baharat

Simply Organic Organic Baharat Seasoning, 2.5 OZ

A Middle Eastern spice blend, Baharat contains ingredients like paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and cloves. Its warm and slightly spicy flavor profile makes it a suitable alternative to Cajun seasoning in certain recipes.

Lebanese 7 Spices

Seven Spice - Lebonese Style 2.0 oz - Zamouri Spices

Also known as Baharat, this blend features seven spices commonly used in Lebanese cuisine, including allspice, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, coriander, and cumin. It offers a warm and aromatic flavor that can be used as a substitute for Cajun seasoning.

Zaatar

Za'atar by Z&Z (Zaatar/Zatar/Zahtar) – Premium Za'atar, 3.25oz – Middle Eastern Spice Mix you can Snack on

A Middle Eastern blend of dried herbs, toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and salt, Zaatar has a nutty and herbaceous flavor profile. While not as spicy as Cajun seasoning, it can add a unique taste to various dishes.

Harissa

Mina Mild Harissa Sauce, Mild Sauce Crafted with Fresh Red Peppers Instantly Transforms Any Plate with the Lively Flavors of Morocco (10 Ounces)

A North African spice blend, Harissa is made from dried chilies, garlic, cumin, coriander, and caraway seeds. It offers a spicy and smoky flavor that can be used as an alternative to Cajun seasoning in some recipes.

Ras El Hanout

The Spice Way - Ras El Hanout Moroccan Meat Spice Blend Salt Free (meat seasonings) No Additives, No Preservatives, Just Spices and Herbs We Grow, Dry and Blend In Our Farm, North African Spice (resealable bag) (4 oz)

A Moroccan spice blend, Ras El Hanout contains a mix of spices such as cinnamon, cumin, coriander, cardamom, and paprika. Its warm and slightly spicy flavor makes it a suitable substitute for Cajun seasoning in certain dishes.

Chili Powder

McCormick Culinary Dark Chili Powder, 20 oz - One 20 Ounce Container or Dark Chili Powder, Enhances Nachos, Tacos, Enchiladas and Dark Chocolate

Chili powder is a blend of spices, including paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper, that can serve as a great base for a Cajun seasoning substitute. Combine 1 tablespoon of chili powder with other spices like dried thyme and cayenne pepper to create a simple yet flavorful alternative.

Dried Thyme

8 oz Whole Thyme Leaves/ Tomillo Entero Gluten Free Kosher

Dried thyme is a common ingredient in Cajun seasoning and adds an earthy, slightly minty flavor to dishes. Use dried thyme in combination with other spices like chili powder and cayenne pepper to create your own Cajun seasoning substitute.

Cayenne Pepper

McCormick Culinary Ground Cayenne Pepper, 14 oz - One 14 Ounce Container of Cayenne Pepper Powder, Ideal for Rubs, Marinades, Sauces, Meats and More

Cayenne pepper adds heat and depth to any dish and is a key component of Cajun seasoning. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper according to your desired spice level when creating your own blend or using it as an alternative.

Paprika

McCormick Culinary Paprika, 18 oz - One 18 Ounce Container of Sweet Paprika Seasoning, Perfect with Chicken, Pork, Beef Marinades and Dressings

Paprika, especially smoked paprika, provides a rich, smoky flavor that is characteristic of Cajun seasoning. Use paprika as a base for your homemade blend or as an alternative in recipes that call for Cajun seasoning.

Dried Chives

Frontier Natural Products Chives Freeze-Dried, 0.14-Ounce

Dried chives add a subtle onion flavor to your homemade Cajun seasoning blend. Combine dried chives with other spices like paprika, cayenne pepper, and thyme to create a balanced and flavorful alternative.

Fennel Seeds

The Spice Way Fennel Seed - bulk whole seeds great for tea and cooking 8 oz

Fennel seeds contribute a unique licorice-like flavor to your homemade Cajun seasoning blend. Grind fennel seeds and mix them with other spices for a distinct and delicious alternative to store-bought Cajun seasoning.

Ground Cumin

McCormick Ground Cumin, 14 oz

Ground cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other spices in a Cajun seasoning blend. Incorporate ground cumin into your homemade blend or use it as an alternative in recipes that call for Cajun seasoning.

Creole Seasoning

Zatarains New Orleans Traditional Creole Seasoning - 8 Oz. (Pack of 2)

Creole seasoning is similar to Cajun seasoning, with some slight differences in ingredients and proportions. Both are native to Louisiana and share many key ingredients such as paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder. Use Creole seasoning as a direct substitute for Cajun seasoning in recipes.

Adobo Seasoning

Goya Adobo All Purpose Seasoning with Pepper Extra Large 28 oz Shakeable Canister

Adobo seasoning is a versatile spice blend that can be used as an alternative to Cajun seasoning. It typically includes garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, black pepper, and sometimes cumin. Adjust the spice level by adding cayenne pepper or other hot spices as needed.

Tips for Creating the Perfect Cajun Seasoning Substitute

Making your own Cajun seasoning or finding alternatives in your pantry has several benefits. Not only do you save money, but you also get to control the ingredients, ensuring there are no unnecessary sugars or preservatives. Additionally, you can adjust the spice level to your personal preference, and even create unique flavor combinations with different spice blends.

Control the Ingredients for Your Desired Spice Level

When creating your own Cajun seasoning substitute, remember to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences. Add more cayenne pepper for a spicier blend, or reduce it for a milder flavor. Experiment with different spice combinations to find the perfect balance for your dishes.

Consider Adding Sugars or Preservatives

If you prefer a sweeter Cajun seasoning blend, consider adding a small amount of sugar to your homemade mix. However, it’s essential to be mindful of added sugars and preservatives for health reasons. Opt for natural sweeteners or spices that add sweetness without extra calories or chemicals.

Create Unique Flavor Combinations with Spice Blends

Don’t be afraid to get creative when making your own Cajun seasoning substitute! Combine different spice blends, such as Adobo and Old Bay, for a unique flavor profile. Experiment with various combinations to find the perfect blend that suits your taste buds.

What is Cajun spice blend made of?

Cajun spice blend typically consists of black pepper, white pepper, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika, with some variations including salt, mustard powder, chile peppers, or cumin.

Can I use paprika instead of Cajun?

While paprika alone cannot fully replace Cajun seasoning, combining it with cayenne pepper can serve as a basic substitute, as both are important components of Cajun seasoning.

Can I substitute Old Bay for Cajun seasoning?

Yes, Old Bay can be used as a substitute for Cajun seasoning, although it may have a slightly different flavor profile and might be more salt-forward, so consider adding a touch of cayenne pepper for heat.

Is Cajun seasoning the same as chili powder?

No, Cajun seasoning and chili powder are not the same, but they share some similar ingredients. A basic substitute for Cajun seasoning can be made using 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.