Are you a fan of Old Bay Seasoning but currently on the Whole30 program?
You may be wondering if you can still enjoy this beloved spice blend while sticking to the rules.
Well, the good news is that Old Bay Seasoning is Whole30 compliant! Not only is it free of MSG, but it’s also kosher.
In this article, we’ll explore how to make your own Old Bay Seasoning blend and share a delicious Whole30-approved recipe for crispy baked chicken wings.
So, let’s dive in and discover how you can spice up your Whole30 meals with Old Bay Seasoning!
Can You Have Old Bay Seasoning On Whole30?
As mentioned earlier, Old Bay Seasoning is completely acceptable to use while on the Whole30 program. This means that you can add this delicious spice blend to your meals without any worries about breaking the rules.
One of the reasons why Old Bay Seasoning is so popular is because it’s versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. From seafood to chicken and even vegetables, this spice blend can add a unique flavor to any meal.
If you’re concerned about the ingredients in store-bought Old Bay Seasoning, you can easily make your own at home. All you need is celery salt, ground bay leaves, fresh ground black pepper, mustard powder, cinnamon, and ground cloves. Simply mix all the ingredients together and store in a cool, dark place.
What Is Old Bay Seasoning?
Old Bay Seasoning is a popular spice blend that was originally created in Baltimore, Maryland and is now marketed in the United States by McCormick & Company. It is made up of a mix of celery salt, spices (including red pepper and black pepper), and paprika. While the exact recipe is a closely guarded secret, it is known to contain a blend of 18 herbs and spices, including celery seed, mustard, and ginger.
The seasoning is particularly popular in Maryland and other regions along the Mid-Atlantic States, as well as in the Southern States, parts of New England, and the Gulf Coast. It is often used to flavor seafood dishes, such as Maryland-style crab cakes, but it can also be used on poultry, pork, vegetables, and even popcorn.
Old Bay Seasoning has a complex savory flavor with bay leaf, celery salt, mustard, and pepper at the forefront. Paprika and various other spices add depth and make this a well-rounded seasoning. It has a six-month shelf life and can be easily made at home using simple ingredients.
Is Old Bay Seasoning Whole30 Compliant?
Yes, Old Bay Seasoning is Whole30 compliant. This means that you can use it in your meals while on the Whole30 program without worrying about breaking the rules. However, it’s important to note that not all store-bought Old Bay Seasoning blends may be compliant due to the addition of non-compliant ingredients such as sugar or preservatives.
If you’re unsure about the ingredients in your store-bought Old Bay Seasoning, it’s always best to make your own at home using compliant ingredients. As mentioned earlier, making your own blend is simple and only requires a few ingredients.
It’s also worth noting that while Old Bay Seasoning is compliant, it’s important to use it in moderation and not rely on it as a crutch for flavor. The Whole30 program encourages the use of whole, unprocessed foods and encourages individuals to experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the natural flavors of their meals.
How To Make Your Own Old Bay Seasoning Blend
If you want to make your own Old Bay Seasoning blend, it’s important to note that since the full ingredient list is a secret, it will be difficult to get the recipe exactly the same. However, with some experimentation and using the ingredients listed on the container of Old Bay as a starting point, you can create a seasoning blend that is close in taste and works perfectly for your taste buds.
To make your own Old Bay Seasoning blend, start by grinding the bay leaves yourself. Use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle if you have one, or simply use the back of a spoon if you don’t. You want the bay leaves ground as finely as possible.
Once you have ground the bay leaves, combine them with 1 tablespoon of celery salt, 2 teaspoons of fresh ground black pepper, 1/2 teaspoon of mustard powder, 1/8 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves in a small bowl. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined.
If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves to just a pinch instead of 1/4 teaspoon of each. Store your homemade Old Bay Seasoning blend in a cool, dark place until ready to use.
By making your own Old Bay Seasoning blend, you can ensure that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and avoid any potential additives or preservatives. Plus, it’s a fun and easy way to experiment with different flavor combinations in your cooking.
Whole30-approved Recipe: Crispy Baked Chicken Wings With Old Bay Seasoning
If you’re a fan of chicken wings and looking for a Whole30-approved recipe, look no further than these crispy baked chicken wings with Old Bay seasoning. This recipe is not only easy to make but also gluten-free and dairy-free.
To make these wings, you’ll need chicken wings (drummettes work best), arrowroot flour, and Old Bay seasoning. Preheat your oven to 450 degrees and line a rimmed baking pan with parchment paper. In a gallon-sized zip-top bag, add the chicken wings, arrowroot flour, and Old Bay seasoning. Shake the bag until the chicken is evenly coated.
Arrange the chicken wings in a single layer on the baking pan and bake for 20 minutes. Flip the wings over and bake for another 20 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown. These wings are perfect for dipping in your favorite compliant ranch sauce or mixed with a little extra Old Bay seasoning for even more flavor.
Other Ways To Use Old Bay Seasoning On Whole30
Aside from the traditional use of Old Bay Seasoning in seafood boils, there are many other ways to incorporate this spice blend into your Whole30 meals. Here are a few ideas:
1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favorite veggies (such as broccoli, cauliflower, or sweet potatoes) in olive oil and sprinkle with Old Bay Seasoning before roasting in the oven.
2. Grilled Chicken: Rub chicken breasts or thighs with Old Bay Seasoning before grilling for a flavorful and easy protein option.
3. Deviled Eggs: Mix Old Bay Seasoning into the filling for a unique twist on this classic appetizer.
4. Avocado Toast: Mash avocado onto whole grain toast and sprinkle with Old Bay Seasoning for a delicious and satisfying breakfast or snack.
5. Meatballs: Add Old Bay Seasoning to your homemade meatball mixture for a burst of flavor.
As you can see, Old Bay Seasoning is a versatile spice blend that can be used in many different ways while on the Whole30 program. Experiment with adding it to your favorite dishes and discover new flavor combinations that you’ll love.
