Caribbean Seasoning

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Last Updated on October 26, 2023 by Toya

Love Caribbean cooking? Then you’ll love this homemade Caribbean seasoning recipe! It is my go-to seasoning mix when I want to infuse lovely Caribbean flavors into my cooking.

This homemade Caribbean spice mix is the best way to enjoy all the vibrant, bold, and spicy flavors of the Caribbean. This seasoning mix is perfect for chicken, dry rubs, and more. Today I’ll show you exactly how to make my flavorful Caribbean seasoning mix with spices that you likely have in your kitchen right now.

What is Caribbean seasoning made of?

Caribbean seasoning, also known as Caribbean spice blend, is a flavorful mix of spices, herbs, sugar, and salt that represents the tropical and diverse flavors of the Caribbean islands. While the exact mix of spices and herbs can vary from one recipe to another, there are several core ingredients that form the backbone of this aromatic spice blend:

• Allspice: Also known as pimento, allspice contributes a warm and slightly sweet flavor with hints of clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  
• Thyme: Dried thyme leaves provide an earthy, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the other spices.
  
• Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These add savory depth to the mix.
  
• Paprika: Often smoked, paprika infuses the blend with color and a subtle smokiness.
  
• Cayenne Pepper: For a spicy kick, cayenne pepper is added. The level of heat can be adjusted according to your preference.
  
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper lends a peppery warmth to the mix.
  
• Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor and seasoning.
  
• Brown Sugar: Brown sugar or other sweeteners, like molasses, can be included for sweetness and to aid in caramelization when grilling or roasting.
  
• Ground Ginger: Ground ginger provides a warm, slightly spicy, and citrusy note.
  
• Cinnamon: A touch of ground cinnamon imparts a sweet and warm undertone.
  
• Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg adds a hint of nuttiness and complexity.
  
• Ground Cloves: Ground cloves contribute a strong, warm, and sweet-spicy flavor.
  
• Coriander: Ground coriander seeds lend a citrusy, slightly earthy taste.
  
• Turmeric: Turmeric brings a vibrant yellow color and a mild, slightly bitter flavor to the mix.
  

Ingredients

• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 tbsp. paprika
• 2 tbsp. coarse salt
• 1 tbsp. dried thyme
• 1 tbsp. garlic powder
• 2 tsp. red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp. allspice
• 1 tsp. ground cloves
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 tsp. nutmeg
• 1 tsp. ground ginger

How to make Caribbean seasoning

In a mixing bowl, plate, or jar, combine the brown sugar, ground allspice, dried thyme, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, paprika, salt, ground ginger, ground cinnamon, freshly grated nutmeg, and ground cloves.

Taste the seasoning and adjust the salt and heat level to your preference. You can add some cayenne pepper for extra heat or more brown sugar for sweetness.

Transfer the seasoning blend to an airtight container, such as a glass jar, and store.

How to Store Caribbean Seasoning

To ensure your Caribbean seasoning remains flavorful, follow these storage tips:

• Keep it in an airtight container, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
• Label the container with the date of preparation for reference.

How to Use Caribbean Spice Blend

Caribbean seasoning is very versatile and can be used to impart a unique flavor to a wide range of dishes. Here are some ideas on how to use it:

• Marinades: Create a marinade for chicken, pork, seafood, or vegetables by mixing the seasoning with oil and citrus juice.
  
• Dry Rubs: Use it as a dry rub for grilling or roasting meats, such as chicken or pork.
  
• Soups and Stews: Add a teaspoon or two to Caribbean-style soups and stews for a burst of flavor.
  
• Rice and Grains: Season rice, grains, or quinoa with this seasoning mix.

My fragrant blend of spices includes everything you could want from a Caribbean seasoning recipe. It includes warming flavors from the ground allspice, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg; a bit of a kick from the red pepper flakes; a balance of sweetness and saltiness from sugar and salt; and amazing herbal, earthy notes from thyme. You have to try this Caribbean seasoning recipe out!