Introduction

Bring bold, spicy flavor to your dishes with this homemade Slap Ya Mama seasoning. It’s a simple blend of aromatic spices that adds a kick to meats, vegetables, and more. Perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat and depth in their cooking.

A close-up image shows a small clear glass jar filled to the top with a textured dry mixture made of tiny orange granules mixed with some small black bits, forming a rough, grainy surface that mounds slightly over the jar’s silver screw-on lid. The jar sits on a wooden board, with some of the mixture spilled around it and a white scooping utensil partially visible in the background. A small green leaf is at the corner of the wooden board, and the whole scene is set against a softly blurred green background, with bright natural light shining from the side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon Cayenne Pepper (reduce for a milder blend)
1 tablespoon Paprika (use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor)
1 tablespoon Garlic Powder (substitute with fresh garlic for a stronger taste)
1 tablespoon Onion Powder (fresh onions can change the texture)
1 tablespoon Black Pepper (adjust based on heat preference)
2 teaspoons Salt (sea salt or kosher salt can be substituted)

Instructions

Step 1: Gather all your spices and measure them out using clean, dry measuring spoons.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 3: Whisk or stir thoroughly until all the spices are evenly blended.
Step 4: Transfer the spice mix into an airtight jar or spice container.
Step 5: Label the container with the name and date to keep track of freshness.
Step 6: Use 1–2 teaspoons of seasoning per pound of meat or vegetables, adjusting according to taste.

Tips & Variations

Use smoked paprika to add a richer, smoky flavor to the seasoning.
Adjust the cayenne pepper gradually to control the heat level without overpowering the dish.
Try substituting garlic powder with fresh garlic for a punchier, fresher garlic taste, but be aware it may change the texture.
Sprinkle this seasoning on grilled corn for a delicious summer snack.

Storage

Store the seasoning blend in a sealed, airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place. It will keep its best flavor for up to six months. When ready to use, simply scoop out the amount needed. This seasoning does not require refrigeration. For best results, avoid exposure to moisture and direct sunlight.

How to Serve

A clear glass jar filled to the brim with a coarse orange-brown spice mix speckled with black seeds, which creates a textured, grainy appearance. The spice is piled high above the jar rim in a rounded heap. A white spoon rests on the surface next to the jar, holding some of the spice, with grains spilling lightly onto the white marbled surface beneath. The background is soft and out of focus, highlighting the vivid color and texture of the spice blend. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this seasoning less spicy?

Yes, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your preferred heat level. Starting with half the amount and adjusting after tasting is a good approach.

How should I use this seasoning?

This versatile blend works well on meats like chicken, pork, and beef, as well as vegetables. Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons per pound for flavorful results. It’s great for grilling, roasting, or even adding to soups and stews.