Blackened fish is a weeknight staple in my house. It’s quick, flavorful, and feels fancy even when I’m just throwing it on some rice with veggies. Problem is, not all blackening seasonings are created equal. Some are bland, some are too salty, and some just taste…off. So, I went on a mission to find the absolute best blackening seasonings out there. I tried a bunch, and these are my top picks that will seriously upgrade your blackened dishes.
Product Overview / Quick Summary
- Zatarain’s Blackened Seasoning: A classic choice, widely available and delivers a consistent, balanced flavor.
- Slap Ya Mama Blackened Seasoning: A Louisiana favorite, packing a punch of heat and Cajun spices.
- McCormick Culinary Cajun Blackening Seasoning: A versatile option great for both home cooks and professional chefs, offering a robust and smoky flavor.
- Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Blackened Redfish Magic: Created by the legendary Chef Paul Prudhomme, this blend offers a unique and authentic Cajun experience.
- Spiceology Black Magic Blackening Rub: A premium blend with a complex flavor profile, perfect for those looking for a gourmet touch.
Top 5 Best Blackening Seasoning To Buy
1. Zatarain’s Blackened Seasoning
Zatarain’s Blackened Seasoning is a readily available and reliable option for achieving that classic blackened flavor. It’s a blend of spices that delivers a consistent taste profile, making it a great pantry staple. You can easily find this in most grocery stores, which makes it super convenient.
Pros:
- ✅ Widely available in most grocery stores.
- ✅ Consistent and balanced flavor.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit salty for some palates.
- ❌ Not the most complex flavor profile.
- ❌ Contains some artificial flavors.
Verdict: A solid choice for everyday blackening, especially if you’re looking for convenience and affordability. It’s a good starting point if you’re new to blackening.
2. Slap Ya Mama Blackened Seasoning
Slap Ya Mama Blackened Seasoning brings the heat and bold flavors of Louisiana right to your kitchen. This blend is known for its spicy kick and robust Cajun spice mix. If you like your food with a good dose of heat, this is the seasoning for you.
Pros:
- ✅ Delivers a significant amount of heat.
- ✅ Authentic Cajun flavor.
- ✅ Versatile for various meats and seafood.
Cons:
- ❌ May be too spicy for those sensitive to heat.
- ❌ Can overpower more delicate flavors.
- ❌ Some may find it a bit too salty.
Verdict: Perfect for those who love a spicy kick and want to add some authentic Cajun flavor to their dishes. Use sparingly at first to gauge the heat level.
3. McCormick Culinary Cajun Blackening Seasoning
McCormick Culinary Cajun Blackening Seasoning is a versatile and reliable choice, suitable for both home cooks and professional chefs. This blend offers a robust, smoky flavor with a good balance of spices. It’s a great all-around option for blackening anything from fish to chicken.
Pros:
- ✅ Robust and smoky flavor.
- ✅ Versatile for different proteins and vegetables.
- ✅ Trusted brand with consistent quality.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as spicy as some other options.
- ❌ Can be a bit overpowering if used too liberally.
- ❌ May contain anti-caking agents.
Verdict: A great option for those seeking a reliable and versatile blackening seasoning with a smoky kick. It’s a good choice for both beginners and experienced cooks.
4. Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Blackened Redfish Magic
Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Blackened Redfish Magic is a legendary blend created by the renowned Chef Paul Prudhomme. This seasoning offers an authentic Cajun experience, with a unique combination of spices that delivers a rich and complex flavor. It’s ideal for redfish, but works well with other seafood and meats too.
Pros:
- ✅ Authentic Cajun recipe from a renowned chef.
- ✅ Rich and complex flavor profile.
- ✅ Great for redfish and other seafood.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be harder to find in some stores.
- ❌ Slightly more expensive than other options.
- ❌ May contain a high amount of salt.
Verdict: A top-notch choice for those seeking an authentic Cajun blackening experience, especially if you can find it. It’s worth the extra effort for the unique flavor.
5. Spiceology Black Magic Blackening Rub
Spiceology Black Magic Blackening Rub is a premium blend that offers a complex and gourmet flavor profile. This rub uses high-quality ingredients and delivers a unique combination of spices that will elevate your blackened dishes. If you’re looking for something a bit more special, this is it.
Pros:
- ✅ High-quality ingredients.
- ✅ Complex and gourmet flavor profile.
- ✅ Unique spice blend.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than other options.
- ❌ Not as widely available.
- ❌ The complex flavor might not appeal to everyone.
Verdict: Perfect for those looking to elevate their blackening game with a premium, gourmet seasoning. It’s a bit of an investment, but the flavor is worth it if you appreciate high-quality ingredients.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right blackening seasoning can make or break your dish. Here’s what to keep in mind when you’re shopping:
- Spice Level: Consider your tolerance for heat. Some blackening seasonings are very spicy, while others are milder. Read the label and look for terms like “Cajun” or “spicy” if you want a kick.
- Ingredients: Check the ingredient list for any allergens or ingredients you want to avoid, like excessive salt or artificial flavors.
- Flavor Profile: Blackening seasonings can vary in flavor. Some are more smoky, some are more herbal, and some are more citrusy. Think about what flavors you enjoy and choose a seasoning that complements your taste.
- Sodium Content: Many blackening seasonings are high in sodium. If you’re watching your sodium intake, look for low-sodium options or consider making your own blend.
- Read Reviews: Check out online reviews to see what other people are saying about the seasoning’s flavor, heat level, and overall quality. This can give you a better idea of what to expect.
- Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different brands and blends until you find one that you love. Blackening seasoning is a versatile ingredient, so have fun experimenting with different flavors and recipes.
FAQs
What is blackening seasoning typically made of?
Blackening seasoning is usually a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. The exact proportions vary depending on the brand.
Can I use blackening seasoning on anything besides fish?
Absolutely! Blackening seasoning is delicious on chicken, steak, shrimp, tofu, and even vegetables like cauliflower or zucchini. The possibilities are endless.
How do I properly blacken food?
First, coat your food generously with blackening seasoning. Then, heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat until it’s very hot. Add a bit of butter or oil to the pan and sear the food for a few minutes per side, until it’s blackened and cooked through. Be careful, as it can get smoky!
Is blackening seasoning the same as Cajun seasoning?
While similar, blackening seasoning is specifically designed to create a dark, almost burnt crust on food. Cajun seasoning is more of a general spice blend used in Cajun cuisine.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect blackening seasoning really comes down to personal preference. Whether you’re looking for a spicy kick, a smoky depth, or a classic Cajun flavor, there’s a blend out there for you. Hopefully, this guide has helped you narrow down your options and find a blackening seasoning that you’ll love. Now, get cooking and enjoy some delicious blackened dishes!
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