11 Seasoning Blends I Mix Myself to Save Money

Seasoning blends can be the secret weapon in your culinary arsenal, providing a cost-effective, convenient, and flavorful boost to your dishes. Furthermore, creating your own blends allows you to control the ingredients and reduce unnecessary additives, offering a healthier alternative to store-bought versions. So let’s explore these homemade seasoning blends that could enhance your cooking game.

All-Purpose Seasoning Blend

An all-purpose seasoning blend is a versatile addition to your spice rack, suitable for a wide range of dishes. It often includes ingredients like salt, pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and a mix of other herbs and spices. The exact combination can vary based on your preferences.

To create your own, start with equal parts of salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder. Then, add smaller amounts of other spices such as paprika, oregano, and thyme. Mix well and adjust the ratios until you’re satisfied with the taste.

Mexican Seasoning Blend

Mexican cuisine is known for its bold and vibrant flavors. A typical Mexican seasoning blend might include chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and paprika. Some blends also incorporate a touch of cinnamon or cocoa for added depth.

To make your own Mexican seasoning blend, begin with chili powder as the base, then add cumin, garlic and onion powders, and oregano. Paprika can add a smoky note, while a pinch of cinnamon or cocoa can give an unexpected twist. Mix until well combined.

Italian Seasoning Blend

Italian seasoning is a staple in many kitchens, characterized by its aromatic blend of herbs commonly used in Italian cuisine. Key ingredients typically include basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, along with garlic powder, onion powder, and sometimes red pepper flakes.

To create your own Italian seasoning blend, combine equal parts of the herbs, then add garlic and onion powders to taste. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can be a nice addition. Mix well and adjust as necessary.

Cajun Seasoning Blend

Cajun cuisine is famous for its spicy and robust flavors. A Cajun seasoning blend usually features a combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, pepper, and oregano, along with other spices like onion powder, thyme, and sometimes a bit of sugar to balance the heat.

To make your own Cajun blend, start with equal parts of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and pepper. Add smaller amounts of oregano, onion powder, and thyme, and a touch of sugar if desired. Mix well, and adjust to your heat preference.

Indian Curry Blend

Indian curry is known for its rich and complex flavors, achieved through a blend of numerous spices. The blend often includes turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, and chili powder, along with other spices like fenugreek, cardamom, and cinnamon.

To create your own Indian curry blend, combine equal parts of turmeric, cumin, coriander, and ginger. Add a smaller amount of chili powder, and a pinch each of fenugreek, cardamom, and cinnamon. Mix well, and adjust the ratios to suit your taste.

Mediterranean Seasoning Blend

Mediterranean cuisine is celebrated for its fresh and vibrant flavors. A typical Mediterranean seasoning blend might include garlic powder, basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram, along with a hint of lemon zest and black pepper.

To create your own, start with equal parts of garlic powder, basil, oregano, rosemary, thyme, and marjoram. Add a touch of lemon zest and black pepper for a zesty kick. Mix well and adjust the ratios until you’re happy with the flavor balance.

BBQ Rub Blend

BBQ rub is a must-have for grill enthusiasts, enhancing the flavor of meats with a delicious blend of sweet, savory, and smoky elements. Key components often include brown sugar, paprika, black pepper, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder.

To create your own BBQ rub, start with a base of brown sugar for sweetness. Add equal parts of paprika, black pepper, salt, chili powder, and garlic powder for a savory kick. Mix well, and adjust to your liking.

Chinese Five Spice Blend

Chinese five-spice blend represents the five basic flavors of Chinese cooking: sweet, sour, bitter, salty, and umami. It typically includes star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan (Chinese) peppercorns, and fennel seeds.

To make your own, combine equal parts of each ingredient in a grinder. Grind until well mixed and finely ground. This blend is powerful, so a little goes a long way.

Greek Seasoning Blend

Greek cuisine is renowned for its delicious balance of earthy and aromatic flavors. A typical Greek seasoning blend might include garlic powder, dried basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram, along with a touch of lemon zest and black pepper.

To create your own Greek seasoning, start with equal parts of garlic powder, basil, oregano, thyme, and marjoram. Add a hint of lemon zest and black pepper for a zesty twist. Mix well and adjust as necessary.

Middle Eastern Za’atar Blend

Za’atar is a flavorful blend popular in Middle Eastern cuisine, typically consisting of toasted sesame seeds, sumac, thyme, and salt. It’s often used to season meats and vegetables or mixed with olive oil for a bread dip.

To make your own Za’atar blend, combine equal parts of toasted sesame seeds, sumac, and thyme. Add salt to taste, mix well, and adjust the ratios as needed.

Thai Spice Blend

Thai cuisine is known for its harmonious balance of sweet, sour, spicy, and savory flavors. A Thai spice blend might include ingredients like coriander, chili powder, garlic powder, lemongrass, ginger, and lime zest.

To create your own Thai spice blend, start with equal parts of coriander, chili powder, and garlic powder. Add smaller amounts of lemongrass, ginger, and lime zest. Mix well and adjust the ratios to suit your palate.

Making your own seasoning blends not only saves money but also allows you to explore and customize flavors to your liking. So why not give it a try? It might just revolutionize your cooking.