Old Bay Seasoning Recipe - Capture the
Authentic Flavours of Chesapeake Bay

If lobster, crab, shrimp and other shellfish are on the menu, then this Old Bay seasoning recipe is the recipe for you. This seasoning dates from the 1940's and is a blend of coarse sea salt and spices that makes an excellent boil, rub or general seasoning. 

What You'll Need: (makes about 14-15 tablespoons)

8 tbsp cup coarse sea salt
5 tbsp paprika (any variety)
8-10 dried bay leaves
2 tbsp mustard seed
Seeds from 6 green cardamom pods
1 tbsp ginger powder
1 tbsp whole black peppercorns
1 tbsp chili powder (more if you like a bit of heat) 
2 tsp celery seed
2 tsp whole cloves
2 tsp grated nutmeg

tbsp = tablespoon
tsp = teaspoon

Directions:

  • Crumble the bay leaves

  • Combine the cardamom seeds and bay with the salt and other whole ingredients and coarsely grind in your spice grinder
  • Add to a bowl

  • Stir in in the ginger, chili, nutmeg and paprika

Store your Old Bay seasoning in an airtight jar out of sunlight. Use it within 6 months before making up a fresh lot.

See the grinding page for step-by-step info and photos. (Link opens in new window)

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