Are you a fan of Hispanic cuisine? If so, you’ve probably heard of Goya Sazon seasoning.
This popular seasoning mix is a staple in many Hispanic households, especially in Puerto Rican cuisine. But have you ever wondered what’s actually in it?
In this article, we’ll break down the ingredients of Goya Sazon and explore how you can make your own homemade version without any artificial additives.
Get ready to add some flavor and color to your dishes with this delicious seasoning!
What Is In Goya Sazon Seasoning?
Goya Sazon seasoning is a blend of spices that includes coriander, cumin, annatto, garlic, and other natural ingredients. These spices are carefully selected to enhance the flavor and color of your dishes, giving them a unique and delicious taste.
Annatto is the key ingredient in Goya Sazon seasoning. It is made by cooking annatto seeds in oil to release their color, which is then used to give dishes a beautiful yellow hue. This is why Goya Sazon seasoning is often used in dishes like arroz con gandules, which require a vibrant color.
Other spices like coriander and cumin add a warming earthy flavor to the seasoning mix, while garlic adds a savory kick. These spices work together to create a well-balanced and flavorful seasoning that can be used in a variety of dishes.
The History Of Goya Sazon Seasoning
Goya Sazon seasoning has a rich history that dates back to the early 1900s. The Goya brand was founded in 1936 by Don Prudencio Unanue and his wife Carolina, who immigrated to the United States from Spain. They started their business by importing Spanish foods and selling them to local grocery stores.
In the 1940s, Goya began producing its own line of products, including sazon seasoning. The original sazon seasoning was a blend of spices that included coriander, cumin, garlic, and salt. Over time, Goya expanded its sazon seasoning line to include different varieties, such as sazon with annatto and sazon with saffron.
Today, Goya Sazon seasoning is a staple in Latin American households and is used in a variety of dishes. It has become known as the “secret ingredient” that adds flavor and color to dishes like arroz con pollo and carne guisada.
In recent years, Goya has also introduced a no-salt version of its sazon seasoning called Sazon Natural & Complete. This version contains all the same spices as the original sazon seasoning but without the addition of salt.
The Ingredients Of Goya Sazon Seasoning
Goya Sazon seasoning is made up of five main ingredients: coriander, cumin, annatto, garlic, and salt. Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in the flavor and color of the seasoning.
Coriander is ground up seeds from cilantro leaves that add a citrusy and slightly sweet flavor to the seasoning. Cumin, on the other hand, adds a warming earthy flavor that complements the coriander. The combination of these two spices creates a well-rounded flavor profile.
Annatto is the key ingredient that gives Goya Sazon seasoning its vibrant color. It is derived from the seeds of the achiote tree and is commonly used as a natural food dye. In Goya Sazon seasoning, annatto is used to give dishes like rice and beans a beautiful yellow hue.
Garlic adds a savory kick to the seasoning and complements the other spices. It is also known for its health benefits, including boosting immunity and reducing inflammation.
Finally, salt is added to bring out all of the flavors in the seasoning mix. However, Goya also offers a no-salt variety for those who are watching their sodium intake.
The Benefits Of Using Goya Sazon Seasoning
Using Goya Sazon seasoning in your cooking has several benefits. Firstly, it adds a burst of flavor to your dishes, making them more delicious and enjoyable to eat. The carefully selected blend of spices in Goya Sazon seasoning complements a wide range of dishes, from soups and stews to rice and beans.
Secondly, using Goya Sazon seasoning can save you time and effort in the kitchen. Instead of measuring out individual spices and herbs, you can simply tear open a packet of Goya Sazon seasoning and add it to your dish. This makes it a convenient option for busy cooks who want to add flavor to their dishes without spending too much time on preparation.
Lastly, Goya Sazon seasoning is versatile and can be used in a variety of different cuisines. While it is commonly used in Spanish and Latin American cooking, it can also be used in other dishes like stir-fries, roasted vegetables, and marinades.
How To Make Your Own Homemade Goya Sazon Seasoning
Making your own homemade Goya Sazon seasoning is easy and can be done with ingredients you may already have in your pantry. Here is a simple recipe to make your own sazon seasoning:
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon annatto or achiote powder
– 1 tablespoon ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon ground coriander
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 tablespoon salt
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix all of the spices together until well combined.
2. Store the seasoning in an airtight container or spice jar.
3. Use as needed in your favorite dishes.
This homemade version of Goya Sazon seasoning is a great alternative to pre-packaged versions that often contain MSG. Plus, you can adjust the amounts of each spice to your liking and create a custom blend that suits your taste preferences.
Creative Ways To Use Goya Sazon Seasoning In Your Cooking
If you’re looking to add some extra flavor to your dishes, Goya Sazon seasoning is a great choice. Here are some creative ways to use it in your cooking:
1. Dry Marinade: Use Goya Sazon seasoning as a dry marinade for meat and vegetables. Simply sprinkle it over the food before cooking to add a burst of flavor.
2. Rice Dishes: Add Goya Sazon seasoning to your rice dishes for a delicious and colorful twist. It pairs perfectly with dishes like arroz con pollo or arroz junto.
3. Soups and Stews: Use Goya Sazon seasoning as an all-purpose seasoning for soups, stews, and sauces. It adds depth of flavor and a beautiful color to any dish.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Toss your favorite vegetables in Goya Sazon seasoning before roasting them in the oven. The seasoning will caramelize on the vegetables, creating a delicious crust.
5. Popcorn: Sprinkle Goya Sazon seasoning over freshly popped popcorn for a savory snack that’s sure to please.
