This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure policy.
Adobo Seasoning is an all-purpose flavorful seasoning blend commonly used in Caribbean and Latin American Cuisine to enhance the flavor of meats, marinades, vegetables, and more.
In This Post
Better than Goya Adobo Seasoning
I know it is tempting to purchase packaged spice blends, but trust me when I say homemade is the way to go!
With simple dried spices you likely have on hand, you can whip up countless spices blends that will make your meals come to life with flavor--and control EXACTLY what goes into those spice blends.
With a flavorful combination of salt, cumin, oregano, paprika, onion powder, chili powder, and pepper, this homemade adobo seasoning is pure and simple and will enhance your food with flavor, not preservatives or excessive salt--like the popular brands on the market.
Use this blend just as you would use Cajun seasoning or seasoned salt to enhance the flavor of meats, marinade, vegetables, and more.
Happy Cooking! xo Kristen
Adobo Seasoning Ingredients
The ingredients in Adobo Seasoning can vary based on region and preference. This homemade blend is made from the most commonly used seasonings and can be adjusted as desired.
- Kosher Salt: I recommend using kosher salt over iodized or table salt in seasoning blends, as it helps to enhance flavors, rather than just leaving them tasting salty. Feel free to omit the salt or reduce for a lower-sodium/salt-free option.
- Chili Powder: Use regular ground chili powder, not Ancho Chili Powder which can be overwhelming.
- Paprika: This recipe calls for regular paprika, not smoked paprika. If you would like a smokey undertone in your seasoning.
- White Pepper: White pepper has a slightly fermented taste and pairs well with the other spices in this Adobo blend. Feel free to use black pepper if that is what you have on hand.
- Optional Addition: Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder if you like the flavor of garlic in your seasoning.
Kristen's Tip
For optimum flavor, use dried herbs that are no more than 6 months old, as they will begin to lose potency as they age.
Storage Instructions
After combining the spices together, transfer the homemade adobo seasoning to an airtight container or jar. While safe to use beyond 6 months, the flavor is best if used within 6 months of preparation.
Ways to Use Adobo Seasoning
There are endless ways to use Adobo Seasoning, as it is nearly as versatile as salt and pepper.
- As a Seasoning: Sprinkle it over homemade microwave popcorn, air fryer corn on the cob, Instant Pot beans, or rice with Adobo seasoning before serving to add flavor to otherwise simple dishes.
- To Develop Flavor: Add 1-2 teaspoons of this Adobo Seasoning to soups, stews, or chilis to help enhance flavors. It is also delicious tossed with potatoes before making for baked fries or air fryer potatoes.
- As a Dry Rub: Use it to rub onto chicken, pork, beef, or tofu before cooking. It makes a great seasoning for baked cod, baked chicken breasts, and air fryer pork chops.
- As a Marinade: Combine this seasoning with oil and an acid, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to create a wet marinade perfect for proteins, like London Broil, or to make vegetable kabobs.
More Homemade Spice Blends
Did you make this recipe?
If you enjoyed this recipe, please leave a comment with a 5-star review at the bottom of the post. Thank you!
Adobo Seasoning
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon white pepper, or black pepper
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon tumeric
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, combine 2 tablespoons kosher salt, 1 tablespoon paprika, 1 tablespoon white pepper, 2 teaspoons onion powder, 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon tumeric together until everything is well distributed.
- Transfer the mixture to an airtight container or jar, to keep the moisture out of the seasoning, and store it in your pantry for up to 6 months.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Well I should have sent you comments on some great recipes you have posted before. I am elderly and live alone. I do all my own cooking thanks to my mother who taught me and my brother how to cook so we wouldn't starve to death when we grew up. I sent you this comment because it will save me money by making some of these seasonings that are expensive. I did not know how simple some of the seasonings were to make and I have all the ingredients. You keep writing I'll keep reading. Thanks
I so appreciate you taking the time to leave a review now, Daniel! And simply thrilled to be helping you save money! Enjoy!
Yum! I love how easy this was to put together and how flavorful it is! Thank you!!
Yum!! Saving this recipe because it was so yummy!
SOOOO easy! I won't but from the store again!! It tastes better too so thank you!
Wonderful! So happy to hear you enjoy this seasoning!