Lawry’s Seasoned Salt is a versatile spice blend that can elevate the flavor of numerous dishes. This savory mix typically contains salt, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and other spices. To cook with Lawry’s Seasoned Salt, simply sprinkle it on meats, vegetables, or other foods before, during, or after cooking to add depth and seasoning.
Using seasoned salt is an easy way to enhance the taste of various recipes without needing multiple spice containers. It works well as a rub for grilled meats, a seasoning for roasted vegetables, or a flavor booster for soups and stews. The blend’s balanced combination of spices provides a savory kick that complements many types of cuisine.
For those who prefer to make their own seasoned salt at home, it’s possible to create a similar blend using common pantry ingredients. Mixing salt with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of sugar can result in a homemade version that mimics the flavor profile of Lawry’s. This allows for customization of the spice levels and ingredients to suit individual tastes.
Understanding Seasoned Salt
Seasoned salt elevates dishes with its savory blend of spices and salt. This versatile seasoning combines salt with herbs and spices to create a flavorful mix that enhances a wide variety of foods.
The Composition of Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt contains a carefully crafted blend of ingredients. The base is salt, which provides the primary seasoning element. Paprika adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and vibrant red color.
Onion powder and garlic powder contribute savory, aromatic notes. These dehydrated alliums infuse dishes with depth and complexity. Turmeric lends a subtle earthy flavor and golden hue to the mix.
Some versions include sugar to balance the savory elements. Additional spices may be present in small amounts to round out the flavor profile.
Comparing Table Salt and Seasoned Salt
Table salt is pure sodium chloride, while seasoned salt is a blend. Table salt has a clean, sharp saltiness. Seasoned salt offers a more complex flavor profile with herbal and spice notes.
Table salt dissolves easily in liquids. Seasoned salt may not dissolve completely due to its spice content. This can create a textured finish on foods.
Table salt measures consistently in recipes. Seasoned salt varies in saltiness depending on the brand and blend. Cooks should adjust quantities accordingly when substituting.
Nutritional Value: Calories, Sodium, and Vitamins
Seasoned salt contains minimal calories, typically less than 5 per serving. The primary nutritional concern is sodium content. One teaspoon can contain 1500-1700 mg of sodium, about 65-75% of the daily recommended limit.
Some ingredients in seasoned salt offer trace nutrients. Paprika provides vitamin A and antioxidants. Turmeric contains curcumin, known for potential anti-inflammatory properties.
Garlic and onion powders contribute small amounts of vitamins and minerals. However, the quantities used in seasoned salt are generally too small to significantly impact nutrition.
Creating Your Own Seasoned Salt
Making homemade seasoned salt is simple and allows for customization to suit your taste preferences. This versatile blend can elevate various dishes with its savory flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Lawry’s Seasoned Salt Recipe
Mix 4 tablespoons salt, 2 teaspoons sugar, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon turmeric, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/4 teaspoon cornstarch in a bowl. Whisk thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or spice jar. Shake well before each use to redistribute the spices.
Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months to maintain freshness and flavor potency.
Ingredients for a Versatile Seasoning Blend
Salt forms the base of the seasoning, providing a savory foundation. Sugar balances the saltiness and enhances flavors.
Paprika adds a mild, sweet pepper taste and vibrant color. Turmeric contributes an earthy flavor and golden hue.
Onion and garlic powders impart aromatic depth. Cornstarch prevents clumping and helps the blend adhere to food surfaces.
Consider using sea salt or kosher salt for a more complex flavor profile. Adjust ratios to suit personal preferences.
Customization and Variations
Experiment with additional spices to create unique blends. Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
Incorporate dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or basil for an herbal note. Ground celery seeds can provide a subtle celery flavor.
For a smoky twist, include smoked paprika or a pinch of chipotle powder. Lemon zest adds brightness to the blend.
Use a spice grinder to create a finer texture if desired. This can help spices distribute more evenly in recipes.
Test small batches to perfect your ideal seasoning blend before making larger quantities.
Seasoning with Lawry’s
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt adds depth and flavor to a wide variety of dishes. This versatile blend enhances everything from meats and vegetables to snacks and sauces.
Enhancing Meats and Poultry
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt works wonders on grilled meats and poultry. Sprinkle it generously on chicken breasts before grilling for a flavorful crust. For beef, rub the seasoning into steaks or burgers prior to cooking.
Prime rib benefits from a light coating of Lawry’s, enhancing its natural flavors. Seafood also pairs well with this seasoning – try it on salmon fillets or shrimp skewers.
For roasted chicken, combine Lawry’s with olive oil to create a paste. Rub this mixture under and over the skin before roasting for juicy, well-seasoned meat.
Elevating Vegetables and Sides
Vegetables gain new life with a sprinkle of Lawry’s. Toss roasted vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts with olive oil and the seasoning before cooking.
Corn on the cob becomes irresistible when buttered and dusted with Lawry’s. For a quick side dish, sauté green beans with garlic and finish with a pinch of the seasoning.
Mashed potatoes reach new heights with Lawry’s mixed in. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. The seasoning also works well in casseroles, adding depth to dishes like green bean casserole or scalloped potatoes.
Flavoring Snacks and Appetizers
Lawry’s transforms ordinary snacks into crave-worthy treats. Sprinkle it over freshly popped popcorn for a savory twist. French fries benefit from a light dusting of the seasoning right after cooking.
For a quick appetizer, mix Lawry’s into cream cheese and spread on crackers. Deviled eggs get a flavor boost when the seasoning is added to the yolk mixture.
Roasted nuts become addictive when tossed with olive oil and Lawry’s before baking. The seasoning also adds zest to homemade trail mix or party snack mixes.
Incorporating into Marinades and Sauces
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt shines in marinades and sauces. For a basic marinade, mix it with olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic. This works well for chicken, pork, or vegetables.
Add Lawry’s to tomato-based sauces for pasta or pizza to enhance their flavor. It’s also a key ingredient in many Bloody Mary recipes, adding depth and spice.
For a quick dipping sauce, mix Lawry’s into sour cream or Greek yogurt. This pairs well with raw vegetables or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Scrambled eggs benefit from a pinch of Lawry’s added during cooking. It also enhances the flavor of homemade salad dressings and vinaigrettes.
Cooking Techniques with Seasoned Salt
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt enhances flavor across various cooking methods. This versatile spice blend adapts well to different techniques, adding savory depth to dishes.
Baking and Roasting
Seasoned salt excels in baking and roasting applications. For roasted vegetables, toss cut pieces with olive oil and a generous sprinkle of seasoned salt before spreading on a baking sheet. This creates a flavorful crust as they cook.
When baking chicken or fish, rub the seasoned salt directly onto the protein before placing it in the oven. The blend’s paprika content aids in browning, while its salt and sugar components help to lock in moisture.
For a savory twist on baked goods, incorporate seasoned salt into bread doughs or sprinkle it on top of rolls before baking. This adds a subtle, savory flavor that complements both sweet and savory dishes.
Grilling and Smoking
Seasoned salt shines in barbecue applications. Use it as a dry rub for meats before grilling or smoking. Mix equal parts seasoned salt and brown sugar for a balanced sweet-savory rub on pork ribs or brisket.
For burgers, mix seasoned salt directly into the ground meat before forming patties. This ensures flavor throughout the burger, not just on the surface.
When grilling vegetables, brush them with oil and sprinkle seasoned salt just before placing on the grill. The salt helps draw out moisture, intensifying flavors and promoting caramelization.
Sauteing and Frying
In sauteing and frying, seasoned salt adds instant flavor to dishes. Sprinkle it over vegetables as they cook in a pan for a quick seasoning boost.
For fried foods, mix seasoned salt into flour or breadcrumb coatings. This infuses the crispy exterior with savory flavor. Try this with chicken cutlets or onion rings.
When making pan sauces, add a pinch of seasoned salt at the end of cooking. This enhances the sauce’s flavor without overpowering it. Remember, a little goes a long way due to the concentrated flavors in the blend.
Dietary Considerations and Substitutes
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt offers versatility, but some may need alternatives due to dietary restrictions or health concerns. Adjustments can be made to reduce sodium, alter sweetness, or accommodate gluten sensitivities.
Reducing Sodium with Substitutes
For those watching their sodium intake, low-sodium versions of seasoned salt are available. These typically contain potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride. A homemade alternative can be created using herbs and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder without added salt.
Lemon zest or citric acid can provide a tangy flavor boost without sodium. Nutritional yeast offers a savory, umami taste and is rich in B-vitamins. These substitutes can help maintain flavor while reducing sodium content.
Sugar and Cumin Alters
Lawry’s Seasoned Salt contains sugar, which may not suit all diets. To reduce sugar, replace it with a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. These provide sweetness without impacting blood sugar levels.
Adding cumin to a homemade blend can enhance savory notes. Cumin offers a warm, earthy flavor and contains iron and antioxidants. Start with a small amount, as its taste can be potent.
A sugar-free, cumin-enhanced blend might include:
- 2 parts salt
- 1 part paprika
- 1/2 part garlic powder
- 1/2 part onion powder
- 1/4 part cumin
- 1/4 part black pepper
Gluten-Free Options
While Lawry’s Seasoned Salt is gluten-free, some seasoning blends may contain gluten as a anti-caking agent. Always check labels for gluten-containing ingredients like wheat flour or barley malt.
For a guaranteed gluten-free option, make a homemade blend using individual spices. Use cornstarch as an anti-caking agent if needed. This ensures complete control over ingredients and avoids cross-contamination risks.
A simple gluten-free seasoned salt recipe:
- 1/4 cup salt
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp cornstarch (optional)
Mix thoroughly and store in an airtight container.
Preserving and Storing Seasoned Salt
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flavor and quality of seasoned salt blends. The right techniques can extend shelf life and preserve the potency of spices like smoked paprika and cayenne pepper.
Optimal Storage Methods
Store seasoned salt in airtight glass containers or shakers. Glass prevents moisture absorption and maintains flavor better than plastic. Keep containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Avoid storing near the stove or oven, as heat and steam can degrade spices.
For maximum freshness, consider using small containers that hold just enough for a few weeks’ use. This minimizes air exposure each time the container is opened. Vacuum-sealed containers can further extend shelf life by eliminating air contact.
Shelf Life of Homemade Blends
Homemade seasoned salt blends typically last 6-12 months when stored properly. Whole spices like celery seeds retain flavor longer than ground spices. Plain salt acts as a preservative, but other ingredients may lose potency over time.
Signs of spoilage include loss of aroma, color changes, or clumping. To maximize shelf life:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients
- Thoroughly dry all components before mixing
- Avoid introducing moisture when measuring
Label containers with the date of creation. For best flavor, use within 6 months. After this time, the blend is still safe to consume but may require larger amounts to achieve the desired taste.