2 cups

The secret to Louisiana cuisine is in the seasonings we use. They are the heart and soul of our cuisine. We always judge someone's ability to cook by what his or her food tastes like, not what it looks like. Every Louisiana kitchen, be it Mama's or the local butcher shop's, is stocked with a personal spice blend. Many of the recipes in this book include some of this spice mix. The recipe can be doubled or tripled. This seasoning mix is similar to the one in my first book. I like this version for a real and rustic taste.

8 tablespoons paprika
3 tablespoons cayenne
5 tablespoons freshly ground black pepper
6 tablespoons garlic powder
3 tablespoons onion powder
6 tablespoons salt
2 1/2 tablespoons dried oregano
2 1/2 tablespoons dried thyme

1. Combine all the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Blend well.

2. Can be stored in an airtight container in your spice cabinet for up to 3 months.

From Louisiana Real & Rustic by Emeril Lagasse. HarperCollins Publishers. Used by permission.