Food - Drink
What's Really In Old Bay Seasoning?
By AUTUMN SWIERS
Home cook spice giant McCormick describes Old Bay seasoning as "sweet, spicy and savory all at once." With over 18 different spices including paprika, red and black pepper, and celery salt, coming together to create a unique, its complex flavor profile has been called The Spice of Baltimore.
But it isn't just a local favorite. Old Bay was originally marketed as a seasoning for seafood, but it has since been used to add flavor to popcorn, corn on the cob, deviled eggs, and more. So, what's all the hype about? And what's really in Old Bay seasoning after all?
Well, no one knows for sure what Old Bay seasoning really is except for the folks at McCormick. Some substitutes though, include dry mustard, cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, and mace, as well as nutmeg, ground bay leaves, and allspice to approximate the long-time favorite.