When it comes to seasoning your dishes, the options can seem endless! Two popular choices that often get confused are Cajun seasoning and blackening seasoning. What exactly is the difference between these two flavorful blends?
What is Cajun seasoning?
Cajun seasoning is a versatile spice blend that originates from the southern state of Louisiana. It typically includes a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. The combination of these spices creates a bold and slightly spicy flavor profile that is perfect for adding a kick to dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, or blackened chicken.
What is blackening seasoning?
Blackening seasoning, on the other hand, is a specific blend of spices that is used to create the famous blackened cooking technique. This technique involves coating fish, chicken, or other proteins in a blend of spices and then searing it in a hot cast-iron skillet. The spices typically include ingredients like paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano. The high heat creates a blackened crust on the outside of the protein, while the inside remains tender and juicy.
So, what's the difference?
While both Cajun and blackening seasoning blends share some similar ingredients, the key difference lies in their intended use. Cajun seasoning is more of an all-purpose blend that can be used to season a wide variety of dishes, while blackening seasoning is specifically designed for the blackening cooking technique. Blackening seasoning tends to have a higher concentration of spices like cayenne pepper to create that signature spicy kick and charred crust.
Next time you're in the kitchen, consider the flavor profile you're looking to achieve. Whether you're craving a spicy kick in your dish or aiming for that classic blackened crust, knowing the difference between Cajun and blackening seasoning can help you take your cooking to the next level! Wanting to try a Blackening seasoning, but don't know where to start? Try our Cajun Magic blackening seasoning in our store front!