Try This Bold, Zippy Homemade Old Bay Seasoning Recipe Today!

Crafting a zesty homemade old bay seasoning blend awakens memories of coastal summers and seafood feasts.

Salt and spices dance together in this versatile mixture that beats store-bought versions hands down.

Peppery notes mingle with celery seeds, creating a magical flavor profile perfect for countless dishes.

Maryland’s iconic seasoning becomes your kitchen’s secret weapon with just a few simple ingredients.

Home cooks can easily mix these spices in minutes, saving money and controlling each flavor nuance.

Sprinkle this seasoning on everything from crab to roasted vegetables, and watch your meals come alive with authentic coastal charm.

You’ll never want to use premade blends again after experiencing this incredible homemade magic.

Blending Homemade Old Bay Seasoning at Home

Step 1: Create Spice Blend

• Paprika
• Celery salt
• Black pepper
• Cayenne pepper
• Dry mustard
• Ginger
• White pepper
• Nutmeg
• Cardamom
• Cinnamon

Grab a mixing bowl and toss all ingredients together. Use a whisk or spoon to thoroughly combine the spices until they’re evenly distributed and create a uniform color and texture.

Step 2: Package Your Seasoning

Select an airtight container or glass spice jar with a tight-fitting lid. Carefully transfer the freshly mixed seasoning into the container. Use a small funnel if needed to prevent spills. Wipe down the rim and seal the container completely.

Step 3: Label and Store

Write the date and name of the seasoning on a label or directly on the container. Stash your homemade spice blend in a dark, cool pantry or cabinet away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

Step 4: Sprinkle and Enjoy

• Grilled seafood
• Roasted chicken
• Crispy french fries
• Steamed vegetables
• Fresh popcorn
• Hearty soups and stews

Tip: This blend stays fresh for up to 6 months when stored properly.

Tips for Homemade Old Bay Seasoning Users

• Customize Spice Levels: Adjust the paprika and cayenne pepper to make the seasoning mild or extra spicy according to your taste preferences.
• Maximize Freshness: Store the homemade Old Bay seasoning in an airtight container away from direct sunlight and heat to preserve its vibrant flavors for up to 6 months.
• Enhance Seafood Dishes: Liberally sprinkle the seasoning on shrimp, crab, fish, and other seafood to add a signature Maryland-style flavor profile.
• Create Versatile Blend: Use this seasoning as a dry rub for grilling meats, mix into marinades, or sprinkle over roasted vegetables for an instant flavor upgrade.
• Mix with Creativity: Experiment by adding the seasoning to homemade salad dressings, scrambled eggs, or as a topping for popcorn to discover new culinary possibilities.

Keeping Homemade Old Bay Seasoning Fresh

• Store homemade Old Bay seasoning in an airtight glass container or sealed spice jar to maintain freshness and prevent moisture for up to 6 months.
• Keep the seasoning blend in a cool, dark pantry away from direct sunlight and heat sources to protect its vibrant flavors and prevent spice degradation.
• Add a small food-grade silica gel packet to the container to absorb excess moisture and keep the seasoning dry and free-flowing.
• Inspect the seasoning periodically for any signs of discoloration, unusual odors, or clumping, which indicate it's time to prepare a fresh batch.

Pairing Ideas for Homemade Old Bay Seasoning

• Pair this homemade Old Bay seasoning with steamed blue crabs, shrimp boils, or grilled salmon for an authentic Maryland coastal flavor explosion that brings the ocean right to your plate.
• Choose a crisp, light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to complement the zesty, spicy notes of the seasoning, creating a refreshing balance with seafood dishes.
• Match the seasoning with a cold, hoppy craft beer like an American wheat ale or a light lager, which cuts through the spiciness and enhances the overall taste experience of your seasoned meal.
• Mix a bright, citrusy cocktail like a classic gin and tonic or a spicy bloody mary to amplify the bold flavors of the Old Bay seasoning and create a vibrant dining experience.

Homemade Old Bay Seasoning Versions

• Sodium-Reduced Blend: Replace salt with low-sodium salt or potassium chloride to create a heart-healthy version without compromising flavor intensity.
• Gluten-Free Seasoning: Verify all individual spice ingredients are certified gluten-free and processed in gluten-free facilities to ensure safe consumption for sensitive individuals.
• Organic Spice Mix: Substitute conventional spices with organic certified options from reputable brands, maintaining the same proportions and flavor profile while supporting sustainable agriculture.
• Nightshade-Free Alternative: Eliminate paprika and replace with ground turmeric or ground mustard to accommodate nightshade-sensitive diets while preserving the seasoning's zesty character.

Homemade Old Bay Seasoning FAQs

• What is Old Bay Seasoning originally used for?

Old Bay was first created in Baltimore, Maryland, specifically to season and enhance the flavor of seafood, particularly crabs and shrimp in the Chesapeake Bay region.

• Is Old Bay Seasoning spicy or mild?

Old Bay has a balanced flavor profile- it’s more savory and slightly spicy with a warm, aromatic blend of herbs and spices that provides a subtle kick without being overwhelmingly hot.

• What are the key spices in traditional Old Bay Seasoning?

The classic blend typically includes celery salt, paprika, red pepper, black pepper, and other warming spices like mustard and cardamom that create its distinctive taste.

• Can I use this homemade seasoning as a substitute for the store-bought version?

Yes, this homemade recipe closely replicates the original Old Bay Seasoning, offering the same flavor profile and versatility for cooking various dishes, from seafood to vegetables and meats.

What to Love About Homemade Old Bay Seasoning

• Craft a personalized spice blend that lets you control salt levels, adjust heat intensity, and create a signature seasoning perfectly tailored to your taste preferences.
• Save money by mixing your own spice blend instead of buying expensive pre-made versions, with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen cupboard.
• Elevate multiple dishes from seafood and chicken to vegetables and popcorn, making this a go-to secret weapon for adding instant flavor to almost any recipe.

Ingredients in Homemade Old Bay Seasoning

• Paprika, Celery Salt: Warm and tangy foundation that provides the classic Old Bay flavor profile.
• Black Pepper, Red Pepper Flakes: Sharp heat and subtle spiciness that adds depth and kick.

• Dried Thyme, Dried Basil: Herbal notes that contribute earthy and slightly sweet undertones.
• Ground Bay Leaves: Signature Old Bay flavor with woodsy and slightly peppery essence.

• Mustard Powder: Sharp and slightly pungent element that brightens overall seasoning.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder: Savory background notes that round out the spice blend.
• Nutmeg: Warm, subtle spice that adds complexity and depth to the seasoning mix.

Homemade Old Bay Seasoning Recipe

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4.7 from 13 reviews

• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 12 1x

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Description

Old Bay Seasoning sparks culinary magic with its blend of classic spices straight from Maryland’s coastal kitchens. Home cooks can easily craft this legendary seasoning mix, elevating seafood, vegetables, and countless dishes with rich, zesty flavor you’ll savor.

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Ingredients

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Main Spices:

• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) celery salt
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) paprika
• ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) black pepper
• ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) cayenne pepper

Secondary Spices:

• ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) dry mustard
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground allspice

Optional and Accent Spices:

• ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) ground cardamom
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.625 ml) ground cloves
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.625 ml) ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon (0.625 ml) ground mace

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Instructions

1. Gather all dry spices and herbs from your pantry, ensuring they are fresh and aromatic for optimal flavor profile.
2. Select a clean, medium-sized mixing bowl that provides ample space for thorough ingredient incorporation.
3. Carefully measure each spice component, focusing on precise proportions to maintain the classic seasoning balance.
4. Gently sift paprika, celery salt, black pepper, and other ground spices into the mixing bowl to prevent potential clumping.
5. Use a whisk or fork to meticulously blend the spice mixture, ensuring comprehensive and uniform distribution of all ingredients.
6. Continue mixing for approximately 60-90 seconds, rotating the bowl to guarantee complete integration of flavors.
7. Choose a pristine, airtight glass container or ceramic spice jar with a secure lid to preserve the seasoning’s potency.
8. Transfer the freshly crafted spice blend into the selected storage vessel, using a funnel if necessary to minimize spillage.
9. Create a legible label indicating the seasoning name and preparation date for future reference.
10. Position the sealed container in a cool, dark cabinet away from direct sunlight and heat sources to maintain maximum flavor intensity.
11. Experiment with the homemade seasoning by sprinkling generously over seafood, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, or incorporating into marinades and cooking liquids.

Notes

• Customize heat levels by adjusting paprika and cayenne pepper ratios for personal spice preferences.
• Replace salt with low-sodium alternatives to create a heart-healthy version of the seasoning blend.
• Grind whole spices fresh for maximum flavor intensity and aromatic depth in the homemade mix.
• Store in a dark glass container to preserve the spices’ potency and prevent flavor degradation from light exposure.

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Dinner, Appetizer
• Method: Blending
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 12
• Calories: 6
• Sugar: 0 g
• Sodium: 364 mg
• Fat: 0.2 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 1.4 g
• Fiber: 0.3 g
• Protein: 0.3 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg