Description
A bold and flavorful homemade seafood boil spice blend made with paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs. Perfect for shrimp, crab, and crawfish boils, this mix adds authentic Southern taste to every pot.
Ingredients
2 tbsp paprika
1 tbsp cayenne pepper
1 tbsp garlic powder
1 tbsp onion powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp mustard seed
1 tsp celery seed
1–2 bay leaves, crushed
1 tbsp lemon zest
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
Mix well until evenly blended.
Store in an airtight jar for up to 6 months.
Use 3–4 tablespoons of the mix per gallon of water in seafood boils.
Add halved lemons, onions, and garlic to the water along with the seasoning.
Bring to a boil, add ingredients in stages: potatoes and sausage first, then corn, then seafood last.
Let it sit 5–10 minutes off the heat before draining and serving.
Notes
Spice levels can be adjusted by increasing or reducing the cayenne pepper.
Add vinegar or a splash of beer (optional) for depth.
This blend works well in roasted vegetables, soups, or as a rub for grilled foods.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes (boil duration including staggered ingredient timing)
- Category: Seasoning Blend
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American (Southern, Cajun, Creole)
Keywords: seafood boil spices, Cajun seasoning, homemade spice blend, Southern seafood boil, Creole spices, Old Bay seasoning, shrimp boil, Lowcountry boil