Authentic Soul Food Seasoning Blend: Southern Spice Recipe and Tips

Soul food seasoning is a carefully balanced mix of spices and herbs used to enhance the bold, comforting flavors of traditional Southern soul food. This blend highlights savory, aromatic notes that complement fried foods, roasted vegetables, stews, and more.

jar of soul food seasoning

There isn’t one definitive soul food seasoning—recipes vary by family and region. We created a simple, versatile version called “Soul Dust” using pantry staples commonly found in Southern kitchens. It’s easy to make and stores well for frequent use.

Ingredients

  • Diamond Crystal kosher salt (or other kosher salt)
  • Coarse ground black pepper
  • Granulated garlic
  • Granulated onion
  • Seasoned salt (for example, Lawry’s)
scooping soul food seasoning with a spoon

How to make soul food seasoning

  1. Measure equal parts kosher salt and coarse ground black pepper into a mixing bowl. Stir to combine so the salt and pepper are evenly distributed.
  2. Add half as much granulated garlic and half as much granulated onion (relative to the salt amount). Mix thoroughly to blend the flavors.
  3. Stir in one quarter part seasoned salt to round out the blend and add depth.
  4. Whisk or stir the mixture until uniform. Taste and adjust: add more garlic, onion, or pepper to suit your preference.
  5. Transfer the seasoning to an airtight jar or spice container and store in a cool, dark place to preserve freshness.
jar of soul food seasoning

Summary

This soul food seasoning blend adds savory, aromatic flavor to a wide range of dishes. It’s straightforward to make from common ingredients and can be used as an all-purpose seasoning for fried chicken, roasted vegetables, grilled meats, soups, and more.

📖 Recipe

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Soul Food Seasoning

Krysten Wilkes & Marrekus Wilkes

A balanced spice blend designed to add savory, comforting flavor to classic soul food dishes.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes

Course Seasonings
Cuisine Soul Food

Servings 13 tablespoons
Calories 19 kcal

Ingredients

  

  • ¼ cup kosher salt
  • ¼ cup coarse ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons granulated garlic
  • 2 tablespoons granulated onion
  • 1 tablespoon seasoned salt e.g. Lawry’s

Instructions

 

  • Combine the kosher salt and coarse black pepper in a bowl and mix until evenly blended.
  • Add granulated garlic and granulated onion, stirring well to distribute both powders throughout the salt and pepper.
  • Mix in the seasoned salt, taste, and adjust any seasonings as desired.
  • Store the finished blend in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for best shelf life.

Notes

Keep the seasoning sealed and away from heat or moisture. Ground spices tend to be most flavorful for 6–12 months.

Nutrition

Calories: 19kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 1gFat: 0.2gSaturated Fat: 0.1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.1gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.04gSodium: 2715mgPotassium: 86mgFiber: 1gSugar: 0.1gVitamin A: 25IUVitamin C: 0.3mgCalcium: 27mgIron: 1mg
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