Spike seasoning has been transforming recipes into unforgettable meals in homes across the US. Since its inception, the spice has continued to enhance the flavor of various dishes for more than a half-century. While finding the perfect Spike Season substitute may seem impossible, some alternatives are available.
This famous condiment is best known for its multiple ingredients and distinct blend of flavors. And it pairs well with almost anything, including fish, chicken, soups, steaks, stews, and vegetables.
This article will cover the most prominent Spike Seasoning substitutes you can use to give your meal that umami touch.
What Is Spike Seasoning?
Spike Seasoning is a spice blend with a total of 39 distinct components in the mix. And Gaylord Hauser, a US dietitian, created this outstanding blend of spices in 1955.
Some key ingredients listed on the label include toasted onion, garlic, bell peppers, mustard flour, coriander, cayenne pepper, and orange peel. Soy powder, cumin, ginger, oregano, thyme, rosemary, paprika, celery seeds, salt, and turmeric are also featured on this list.
These ingredients are combined in various ratios to create this flavorful and exciting seasoning. And the result is an explosion of umami in its most divine form.
Spike Seasoning Substitute
Finding a Spike Seasoning alternative may not be easy due to its unique blend of complex flavors. But there are a few ready-made options that will offer great results. Alternatively, you could always try your hand at a homemade Spike Seasoning blend.
1. McCormick Mediterranean Blends
McCormick, like Spike Seasoning, is a widely recognized seasoning brand. It provides a vast selection of mixes ideal for various foods, including chicken, steak, seafood, and vegetables.
The Mediterranean Sea Salt blend, in particular, makes for a very similar replacement for Spike Seasoning. It shares many components with Spike Seasoning, including garlic, lemon peel, sweet peppers, and salt.
The blend delivers enough taste to stand as a substitute for Spike Seasoning and may be improved by adding other spices. It’s just as strong, sharp, and zesty as any other spice, making it a perfect choice. McCormick Mediterranean Sea Salt should be used as a finishing seasoning, dusted over dishes just before serving.
2. Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic Seasoning
Some steer clear of Spike Seasoning due to its high salt content. Therefore, Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic seasoning mix is a perfect choice if you’re seeking a salt-free substitute for Spike Seasoning.
This fantastic Spike Seasoning alternative comprises toasted onions, red and green bell peppers, garlic, paprika, and several other spices. This savory blend renders a sweet and savory taste profile you cannot resist.
In contrast to Spike Seasoning, Chef Paul’s Prudhomme’s Magic seasoning is widely distributed and even sold online. Hence, it’s far easier to source and stock.
To fully appreciate its extraordinary depth of flavor, it is recommended that you pair this blend with seafood. Of course, it works just as well on other meats, vegetables, pasta dishes, and more.
3. Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning
Indeed, Tony Chachere’s original creole seasoning may not share the same ingredients as Spike seasoning. In fact, not all its ingredients are listed on the packaging, so one cannot be sure. Nevertheless, you can rest assured that it still produces a deliciously perfect result when used to replace Spike Seasoning.
That said, people watching their sodium intake should probably avoid this combination due to its salt content. If you don’t mind the salt level, Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning is worth a go.
Some have even said they eat more vegetables because Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning adds a delicious umami flavor to them. In terms of taste, Tony Chachere’s Original Creole Seasoning is slightly hotter than Spike Seasoning. Therefore, we recommend using it conservatively if you’re worried about the heat.
4. Homemade Spike Seasoning Mix
If you have a few herbs and spices in the pantry, you could try your hand at making your own Spike Seasoning. In fact, making your own allows you to add the flavors you prefer and omit the ones you’re not keen on.
That said, combining salt, pepper, paprika, cayenne pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, muster powder, thyme, and basil will do the trick. Remember that you can always adjust the ratios of these ingredients to your taste.
Conclusion
If you’re in a pinch and need a Spike Seasoning alternative stat, there are options available to you. Whether store-bought or homemade, there is a way to mimic that Spike Seasoning flavor to enhance your dish. And if you opt for any of the Spike Seasoning substitute options listed above, your guests won’t know the difference.