Chick'n Spice Mix

Ingredients

• 37.5 ml (2 1/2 Tbsp)sweet paprika
• 22.5 ml (1 1/2 Tbsp)onion powder
• 22.5 ml (1 1/2 Tbsp)garlic powder
• 22.5 ml (1 1/2 Tbsp)ground coriander
• 7.5 ml (1/2 Tbsp)salt
• 7.5 ml (1/2 Tbsp)ground black pepper
• 10 ml (2 tsp)ground cumin
• 5 ml (1 tsp)chilli powder
• 5 ml (1 tsp)ground ginger
• 5 ml (1 tsp)ground turmeric
• 1.25 ml (1/4 tsp)ground nutmeg

Instructions

1. 1

   Mix the spices

   Put all the ingredients into a jar and mix them together until evenly combined.

2. 2

   Seal the jar

   Close the jar and keep it sealed until you are ready to use the mix.

What is chick’n spice mix?

It is a dry seasoning blend designed to add a savoury, spiced flavour to vegan mock chicken. This American-inspired version combines familiar pantry spices rather than relying on a single dominant flavour.

Paprika, onion and garlic give it a rounded base, while coriander, cumin and the smaller amounts of warming spices add depth. Mixing the blend ahead makes it easy to season plant-based pieces when you need them.

Nutrition and macros by portion

The nutrition label shows one serving as written: 21 calories, 1g protein, 4g carbs, 1g fat.

The carbohydrates come mainly from the dried spices, while the small amount of fat and protein also comes from the spice blend. Use the seasoned mock chicken as the centre of a meal and balance the plate with vegetables and a suitable source of carbohydrates, such as rice or potatoes.

Why these spices work together

Main flavours: sweet paprika, onion powder and garlic powder make up the largest portion of the blend, giving the seasoning its colour and savoury character.

Warm notes: ground coriander and cumin add earthy, aromatic flavour, with ginger, turmeric and nutmeg in smaller amounts to round it out.

Getting an even blend

Measure carefully: spoon each powder into the jar in the stated amount so the salt and stronger spices are distributed across the mix.

Mix thoroughly: stir or shake the sealed jar until no concentrated patches of one spice remain. If the powders have clumped, break them up before combining.

How to use the seasoning

For mock chicken: add the blend to vegan chicken-style pieces as you prepare them, adjusting the amount to suit your taste and the quantity being cooked.

Beyond the main dish: the mix can also season other savoury meals where you want a similar paprika-and-spice profile. Add it gradually, especially if the dish already contains salt.

Adjusting the flavour

Heat: chilli powder brings a little warmth, but its strength can vary. Use less in the dish if you prefer a milder result.

Salt: the blend includes salt, so taste the finished dish before adding extra. This is particularly useful when seasoning a prepared vegan product that is already salted.

Serving ideas

Serve seasoned mock chicken with rice, potatoes or bread, and add vegetables or salad for a more complete plate. A simple sauce or dip can balance the dry, savoury spice profile.

Recipe notes & tips

• Use clean, dry measuring spoons so moisture does not get into the jar.
• Break up any powder clumps before shaking the blend together.
• Shake the closed jar again before each use to redistribute the spices.
• Taste the mock chicken before adding extra salt, since the mix already contains some.
• Start with less chilli powder in the dish if you are unsure how hot yours is.

Variations

• More heat: increase the chilli powder slightly when mixing a batch.
• Milder blend: reduce the chilli powder for a gentler seasoning.
• Salt adjustment: leave out some salt if you usually season the dish separately.
• Smoky note: replace some of the sweet paprika with smoked paprika.
• Fresh finish: add a squeeze of lemon to the cooked dish for a bright contrast.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Uneven mixing: shake or stir until the powders are evenly distributed throughout the jar.
• Damp utensils: use dry spoons to help keep the stored blend free-flowing.
• Adding too much at once: season the mock chicken gradually and taste as you go.
• Oversalting: remember that salt is already included in the mix before seasoning the finished dish.
• Ignoring chilli strength: check how hot your chilli powder is and adjust the amount used in the meal.

How to store

Keep the mix in a tightly sealed, dry jar in a cool cupboard, away from heat and direct sunlight. Use clean, dry utensils each time and check its aroma before using if it has been stored for a long time.

Frequently asked questions