Emeril's "essence"

[GT Mike]

If you ever watch Emeril Live on Food Network, you'll see he uses a spice he calls "essence" a lot in his dishes. I did a quick Google, and found what it is...

Here ya go:

2 1/2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons salt
2 tablespoons garlic powder
1 tablespoon black pepper
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried thyme

Combine all ingredients thoroughly

I mixed up a batch this evening, and it's great! Tasted a little bit just on my fingertip, and it's definitely got the power to "kick it up a notch".

I can see I'll be using it a lot, just as he does. It has a flavor that should be incredible on eggs and hashbrowns, as well as chicken, pork, beef, or whatever other kinds of things you like to prepare.

The recipe I posted is enough to fill an average sized seasoned salt shaker about 3/4 full, but I know I'll be making it in larger quantities once this is used up.

Enjoy!

 

[Shannow]

That's almost the same as the cajun spice mix I found in a genuine cajun cookbook

 

[GT Mike]

Well, Emeril Lagasse owns a restaurant in New Orleans, so I'm sure that's probably where most the inspiration came from.

A lot of his dishes are a little too exotic for me, but I still pay attention to see what he's putting together.