All Purpose Seasoning

Did you ever watch Emeril Lagasse's shows on Food Network way back in the day? In case you don't remember he's the guy who would season things with a loud "Bam!" He also had this seasoning he called "essence" that he would use on everything! I'm not sure what was in it, though I'm sure you could find a copycat version of it somewhere online, but I figure it was pretty much just an all purpose seasoning that he mixed up. You could call it seasoned salt, similar to the stuff you can buy at the store, or all purpose seasoning. You can even tell people it's your special spice blend like Emeril does, but do be sure to have it in your cabinet at all times.

This spice mixture is perfect for seasoning hamburgers, pork chops, and chicken. It's easy to add to steamed veggies or mashed potatoes. The great thing about it is it's all pre-measured so there's no need for measuring spoons while you're cooking. It's perfect for sprinkling with your fingers when you just need a pinch or you can put it in an empty spice jar and shake it onto your food. The spices are kind of generic, the spices that are in almost every spice rub recipe, and they're the spices that are likely staples in your pantry. In fact, I'm pretty sure I have at least two jars of each in my cabinet.

I'd also like to remind you that this is a basic recipe that can be tweaked to your particular taste. Does your family like things spicy? You can double the amount of pepper or even add some cayenne to it. Do you use a lot of onions in your cooking? You can probably leave out the onion powder altogether. Play around and see what you like.

By the way, stay tuned for an upcoming recipe that utilizes this seasoning. If you go ahead and make yours today you'll have it ready for when I post

One last thing before I show you the recipe: I'm posting this recipe by parts rather than actual measurements. If you don't know how this works just pretend you're using the same measuring spoon for each ingredient. This will make it easier to make large or small batches because you don't have to think about how to double or half a 1/2 tsp.

All Purpose Seasoning

Source: Totally Original!

2 parts salt (you can use kosher salt or fine sea salt but I used regular table salt)*
1 part onion powder
1 part garlic powder
1 part paprika
1/2 part black pepper

Measure out all of your ingredients. You can measure them directly into your container or use a bowl. For photographic purposes I measured mine out onto a flexible cutting mat.

Combine the ingredients in a bowl or an airtight container. Stir (or shake if you have a tight lid) them all together until well combined.

Store in an airtight container or an empty spice jar until ready to use.

Sprinkle on almost everything you cook!