What is the best substitute for Cajun seasoning in recipes?

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores various substitutes for Cajun seasoning, with participants sharing personal experiences and suggestions for alternatives in recipes. The conversation includes specific seasoning blends and homemade mixes, as well as inquiries about the suitability of different flavors.

Discussion Character

  • Opinion-based
  • Anecdotal

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, suggests using Southwest seasoning with added habanero for extra heat.
  • Another participant mentions using Tony Chachere's seasoning, which is popular among their friends from Louisiana, as a substitute without disclosing the original recipe's requirements.
  • One participant shares a recipe for Jamaican Pork Tenderloin seasoning, noting it differs from Cajun seasoning but offers an alternative flavor profile.
  • Several users reference a homemade Cajun seasoning mix sourced from Allrecipes.com, detailing the ingredients and preparation method.
  • Another participant expresses surprise at the idea of making their own seasoning, indicating a lack of prior consideration for this approach.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best substitute for Cajun seasoning, with no clear consensus emerging on a single alternative.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a variety of personal experiences and preferences regarding seasoning substitutes, reflecting diverse cooking backgrounds and regional influences.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for alternative seasoning options in their cooking may find the shared experiences and suggestions relevant.

c00p
Gold Member
Messages
1,262
Ok all of you "seasoned" cheffers (ha, no pun intended!)....I'm looking for a GOOD substitute for the old Cajun seasoning because I'm wanting to cook the cajun chili cornbread skillet in my groovy 12" skillet at a show. Should I just use the Southwest and maybe add a habanero to the mixture for some more smoky heat??? Ideas please!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #2
bumping....
 
I use Tony Cacheres seasoning from the grocery store at home we cook cajun food alot and its what all my friends from Louisiana use I'd just substitute it and not mention it called for the cajun seasoning by PC
 
In one of our cookbooks (MAIN DISHES & MORE) we have a recipe for Jamaican Pork Tenderloin. Would that recipe be cajun? If so, here is the recipe for the seasoning:
4 teaspoons chili powder; 1 tablespoon salt; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper. Mix into 1 tablespoon of oil and brush on your meat, or combine with your vegetables, and roast. It is a great recipe to do in our DCB. I believe that recipe book has been retired, so if it meets your needs, let me know and
I can post the recipe.

I also have a Southwest Cornbread recipe which gets its flavor from the red and green peppers and the shredded cheddar cheese. It does not have a spice to give it kick.
I have made it in our 10" skillet but it did not rise as well as when I baked it in our stoneware in the oven.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
The Jamaican Jerk isn't really anything like the old Cajun seasoning was - but thanks for the suggestion!

Teresa Lynn said:
I use Tony Cacheres seasoning from the grocery store at home we cook cajun food alot and its what all my friends from Louisiana use I'd just substitute it and not mention it called for the cajun seasoning by PC
I can't find this at my local stores here in Indep., MO.

Any other suggestions?
 
Email the test kitchens and see what they suggest.
 
From Allrecipes.com: (really, if you are looking for any kind of recipe, this is the best place to turn to!)

CAJUN SEASONING MIX

INGREDIENTS

* 2 teaspoons salt
* 2 teaspoons garlic powder
* 2 1/2 teaspoons paprika
* 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
* 1 1/4 teaspoons dried oregano
* 1 1/4 teaspoons dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)



DIRECTIONS

1. Stir together salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes until evenly blended. Store in an airtight container.
 
ChefBeckyD said:
From Allrecipes.com: (really, if you are looking for any kind of recipe, this is the best place to turn to!)

CAJUN SEASONING MIX

INGREDIENTS

* 2 teaspoons salt
* 2 teaspoons garlic powder
* 2 1/2 teaspoons paprika
* 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
* 1 1/4 teaspoons dried oregano
* 1 1/4 teaspoons dried thyme
* 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)



DIRECTIONS

1. Stir together salt, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes until evenly blended. Store in an airtight container.

Love this website!!! It's the best!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #9
Thanks Becky! I look out there a lot for recipes, but I never even thought of making my own "seasoning"!!!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cajun seasoning made of?

Cajun seasoning typically consists of a blend of spices such as paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. This combination gives it a distinctive flavor profile that is both spicy and aromatic.

What can I use as a substitute for Cajun seasoning?

If you don't have Cajun seasoning on hand, you can create a substitute by mixing equal parts of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Adding a pinch of thyme and oregano can also help mimic the flavor.

Can I use Creole seasoning instead of Cajun seasoning?

Yes, you can use Creole seasoning as a substitute for Cajun seasoning. While they are similar, Creole seasoning often has a slightly different flavor profile, typically including more herbs and less heat. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preference.

Is there a non-spicy alternative to Cajun seasoning?

If you're looking for a non-spicy alternative, consider using a combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. This mix will provide a smoky flavor without the heat associated with Cajun seasoning.

How can I adjust the spice level when substituting Cajun seasoning?

To adjust the spice level when substituting Cajun seasoning, start with a smaller amount of cayenne pepper or omit it entirely if you prefer a milder flavor. You can always add more spice later if needed, but it's harder to reduce the heat once it's in the dish.

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