Description
This Homemade Old Bay Seasoning is a bold and zesty spice blend made from pantry staples. It’s perfect for seafood, fries, popcorn, and more. You can customize the salt and heat levels to fit your taste and dietary preferences.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon celery seed
1 tablespoon paprika
1 tablespoon ground bay leaves
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon mustard powder
1 teaspoon ground ginger
½ teaspoon ground cloves
½ teaspoon ground mace (or nutmeg)
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt (optional)
Instructions
1. Toast the celery seeds and mustard seeds in a dry pan for 1–2 minutes to release their aroma.
2. Grind all whole spices (celery seed, mustard seed, and bay leaves) using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine all the ground spices and remaining ingredients. Stir until fully mixed.
4. Transfer the blend to an airtight spice jar or container.
5. Label your jar and store it in a cool, dry place. Shake before each use.
Notes
Toasting the whole spices before grinding enhances flavor dramatically.
You can skip salt for a sodium-free version; the flavor remains bold.
Store the blend in an airtight jar away from heat and light to maintain potency.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Category: Seasoning
- Method: Blending
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 teaspoon
- Calories: 5
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 120mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 1g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Homemade Old Bay, seasoning blend, DIY spice mix