Description
This Nashville hot seasoning recipe brings fiery heat, smoky depth, and sweet balance to fried chicken, veggies, popcorn, and more.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Spice Blend:
- 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for extra texture and fire)
Instructions
- Measure Ingredients: Combine all spices in a small mixing bowl. Ensure brown sugar is lump-free for even distribution.
- Mix Thoroughly: Stir vigorously with a whisk or spoon until the blend is uniformly brick red with flecks of brown and gold.
- Optional Toasting: For deeper flavor, toast the spice blend in a dry skillet over low heat for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly.
- Store Properly: Transfer to an airtight glass jar and label with the date. Store in a cool, dark place.
- Use Creatively: Sprinkle over fried chicken, popcorn, roasted veggies, or anything needing bold Southern flavor.
Notes
- Adjust cayenne for less heat; increase paprika for smokiness.
- Store in a glass jar for up to 6 months; best flavor in first 30 days.
- All ingredients are naturally gluten-free; double-check labels.
- Great as a rub for meats, tofu, or sprinkled over deviled eggs.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Spice Blend
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 20 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 220 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg