🌿 Spices & Herbs

Old Bay Substitute Recipe: Homemade Blend That Tastes Just Like the Original

Learn how to make Old Bay seasoning at home with this authentic recipe. Get the exact ratios and ingredients to recreate the classic seafood seasoning blend.

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Quick Answer

Make Old Bay at home by mixing 1 tbsp celery salt, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp each of cayenne, allspice, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Store in airtight container for up to 6 months.

Best Substitutes

Classic Homemade Old Bay

1:1

Authentic homemade blend using the original spice combination

Best for:

crab boilsseafoodshrimplobsterfishpotatoes

Mix 1 tbsp celery salt, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1/4 tsp each of cayenne, allspice, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and cinnamon

Quick 3-Ingredient Version

1:1

Simplified blend using just celery salt, paprika, and black pepper

Best for:

basic seasoningquick needsemergency substitute

Mix 1 tbsp celery salt, 1 tsp paprika, 1/2 tsp black pepper

Salt-Free Version

1:1

Homemade blend without salt for low-sodium diets

Best for:

low-sodium dietshealth-conscious cooking

Replace celery salt with celery seed, add salt separately when cooking

Cooking Tips

  • 💡Use fresh, high-quality spices for best flavor
  • 💡Grind whole spices yourself for maximum potency
  • 💡Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution
  • 💡Store in airtight container in cool, dry place
  • 💡Taste and adjust ratios to your preference
  • 💡Make small batches for optimal freshness
  • 💡Label with date and contents
  • 💡Use within 6 months for best quality

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does homemade Old Bay substitute last?

Homemade Old Bay substitute lasts 4-6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. For best flavor, use within 2-3 months.

Can I make Old Bay substitute without celery salt?

Yes, replace celery salt with celery seed and add salt separately. Use 1 tablespoon celery seed plus 1/2 teaspoon salt, or adjust to your taste.

What if I don't have all the spices for the recipe?

Start with the essential 3-ingredient version: celery salt, paprika, and black pepper. You can gradually add more spices as you acquire them.

How do I make Old Bay substitute less spicy?

Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper entirely. You can also increase the paprika to 1 1/2 teaspoons to maintain the color and mild sweetness without the heat.

Summary

Learn how to make Old Bay seasoning at home with this authentic recipe. Get the exact ratios and ingredients to recreate the classic seafood seasoning blend.