Recipe: Cajun Blackening Seasoning Mix

Lynn Stiegler of Ellicott City, Md., wrote in search of a spice recipe for blackening steak, chicken and other foods. She said that she and her husband are on a salt-free diet and the spice mixes she has seen sold commercially all contain salt.

While I did not receive any recipes directly from readers, an Internet search turned up a recipe submitted by Doug Bennett to allrecipes.com. Bennett says, "Eight ingredients and you've made your own salt-free Cajun seasoning mix at home." I mixed up his blend and rubbed it on a steak, which I let sit for about 20 minutes before cooking it in a very hot cast-iron skillet on high heat. This seasoning is so tasty that whether you are on a salt-free diet or not, you'll find many ways to enjoy it.

Cajun Blackening Seasoning Mix

Makes ¼ cup

11/2 tablespoons paprika

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon onion powder

1 tablespoon ground dried thyme

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

1 teaspoon dried basil

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Combine all the spices in a bowl and mix until evenly blended. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Per teaspoon: 9 calories, 0 grams protein, 0 grams fat, 0 grams saturated fat, 2 grams carbohydrate, 1 gram fiber, 0 milligrams cholesterol, 1 milligram sodium

From allrecipes.com