Everglades seasoning recipe
Some recipes quietly earn a permanent spot in your kitchen, and this homemade Everglades seasoning is one of them. It takes just a few minutes to mix, yet it transforms everything from grilled chicken to roasted vegetables with its savory, peppery flavor. I first started making my own blend after running out of my favorite store-bought bottle before a weekend cookout. After a little experimenting with pantry spices, I found a combination my family actually preferred. Now I always keep a fresh jar nearby because it disappears faster than I’d like to admit.
Equipment
- Small mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
- Small whisk or spoon
- Airtight glass spice jar
- Funnel (optional)
- Label or masking tape
Ingredients
- Coarse salt – 3 tablespoons
- Garlic powder – 1 tablespoon
- Onion powder – 1 tablespoon
- Sweet paprika – 1 tablespoon
- Freshly ground black pepper – 1 tablespoon
- Granulated sugar – 1 tablespoon
- Celery seed – 2 teaspoons
- Dried parsley flakes – 2 teaspoons
- Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
- Ground cumin – 1 teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper optional – ½ teaspoon
Instructions
Step 1: Measure Every Spice Carefully
- Gather all of your spices before you begin and measure each one into a small bowl. I like to double-check everything first because it’s much easier than trying to fix the blend after it’s mixed.Cooking & Recipes
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
- Pour all of the measured spices into the bowl. Use a small whisk or spoon to stir for about one to two minutes until every ingredient is evenly distributed. Don’t rush this step—the extra mixing really helps.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
- Dip a clean spoon into the seasoning and give it a quick taste. If you enjoy a little more heat, add another pinch of cayenne. If you’re a garlic fan like my family, a small extra sprinkle of garlic powder is always welcome.
Step 4: Transfer to a Spice Jar
- Use a funnel if you have one to pour the seasoning into a clean, dry glass jar. Keeping moisture out helps the blend stay fresh much longer.
Step 5: Let the Flavors Meld
- Although you can use it right away, I usually let the jar sit overnight in the pantry. By the next day, the spices seem to come together into a smoother, more balanced flavor.
Step 6: Season Your Favorite Foods
- Sprinkle the seasoning over chicken, steak, seafood, burgers, potatoes, vegetables, fries, eggs, or even popcorn. Start with a light hand—you can always add more later.
Step 7: Store Properly
- Seal the jar tightly after every use and keep it in a cool, dry pantry away from sunlight. I give mine a little shake before using since the heavier spices naturally settle over time.
Step 8: Enjoy Whenever You Cook
- Now comes the fun part. Reach for this homemade blend whenever a meal needs a little extra flavor. It’s one of those seasonings that quietly makes everyday cooking taste just a bit more special without much effort.
Notes
Each teaspoon contains about 8 calories, making it an easy way to add bold flavor without adding much to the calorie count. I keep a small shaker beside my stove, and it’s usually the first seasoning I grab when dinner feels like it needs a little something extra.