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Learn how to make an easy homemade Sazón seasoning recipe just like store-bought packets, but with simple ingredients and no added sugar or MSG! Savory and slightly smoky, this seasoning blend is my favorite way to add flavor to a variety of recipes.
Naturally gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free, and quick to prepare, I like to make a big batch of this sazon seasoning blend to keep on hand for quick meals on busy days.
What is Sazón Seasoning?
If you’re unfamiliar, Sazón is a popular spice blend from Puerto Rico. Traditional Sazón seasoning is typically made with a blend of coriander, ground annatto seeds, cumin, achiote, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. I first discovered it in Costa Rica and immediately fell in love.
I purchased a big jar of Loisa Sazón Seasoning as soon as I returned home, finding it online and in Hispanic markets, and have been using it on literally everything from my Costa Rica-Style Black Beans to veggies and meats. However, most store-bought blends are made with MSG, which I don’t love. So, I decided to make my own, using simple, whole food ingredients I had on hand.
Luckily, it turned out to be super simple, and my homemade Sazón seasoning recipe tastes just like the pre-made versions, using items you probably have in your pantry. Plus, it’s way cheaper to make yourself!
Ingredients and Notes
*Scroll down to the recipe card for the full recipe and ingredient list!
- Paprika: This adds a smoky flavor and gives the blend a warm red color. Use sweet paprika for a milder taste, or opt for smoked paprika for extra depth and a bolder, smokier flavor.
- Turmeric: A little goes a long way to infuse the spice blend with subtle earthy notes.
- Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These enhance the savoriness and depth.
- Ground Cumin: A staple in any Sazón spice blend recipe, this adds a warm, slightly nutty flavor.
- Dried Oregano: This adds a bright, herbal note that balances the warmth.
- Salt: Kosher salt enhances the rest of the ingredients.
- Ground Coriander: This is ground-up seeds that make cilantro, adding a slightly sweet, earthy taste.
- Pepper: Optional but recommended, black pepper adds depth and a kick of spice.
How to Make the Best Homemade Sazón Seasoning Recipe
- Combine: Whisk or stir all the ingredients in a small bowl.
- Use and store: Follow recipe instructions, adding the recommended amount of seasoning to whatever you’re making. Store leftovers in an airtight container or glass jar in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months!
Kitchen Tools I Use
Ways to Use
This clean, homemade Sazón seasoning recipe is super versatile and adds bold, savory flavor to so many dishes. I love to use it with my Costa Rica Garlic Shrimp and Instant Pot pinto beans.
It’s also great with options like:
- Seasoned meats: Rub the spice blend onto chicken, steak, shrimp, or pork before cooking for an easy flavor boost.
- Tacos & fajitas: Use it as a good substitute for spice blends with taco meat or sautéed fajita veggies.
- Rice dishes & with grains: Stir the spice blend into white rice, brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice while cooking for a simple, flavorful side.
- Beans & legumes: Add a dash to black beans, pinto beans, or lentils to instantly elevate them.
- Soups & stews: Sprinkle your Sazón seasoning into brothy soups, chili, or stews for deeper, more complex flavor.
- Roasted vegetables: Toss veggies like potatoes, peppers, zucchini, or carrots with olive oil and this seasoning before roasting.
- Eggs & breakfast dishes: Add a pinch to scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, or omelets for a savory twist.
- Marinades: Mix the spice blend with olive oil and citrus juice (like lime or orange) to create a quick, flavorful marinade.
- Dips & sauces: Stir a bit of the spice mix into sour cream, Greek yogurt, or mayo for a quick dip or spread.
More Homemade Seasoning Blends
- DIY Everything Bagel Seasoning
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning
- Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning
- Classic Burger Seasoning
Sazón Spice Blend
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1.5 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon ground coriander
- Optional: pinch of black pepper
Instructions
- Add all ingredients to a small bowl.
- Whisk or stir until fully combined.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
