Homemade Ranch Seasoning: How to Make it From Scratch

Are you tired of spending your hard-earned money on expensive packets of ranch seasoning at the grocery store? Well, it’s time to say goodbye to those store-bought mixes and hello to homemade ranch seasoning! Not only is making your own ranch seasoning simpler than you might think, but it also gives you complete control over the ingredients.

To start with, the base of ranch seasoning is dried herbs and spices, which are easily found in most kitchens. With a quick mix of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper, you’re on your way to creating the perfect ranch seasoning. And the best part? You can customize the flavor to your liking by adjusting the amount of each ingredient. So, let’s get started and learn how to make ranch seasoning from scratch!

What You Need to Make Homemade Ranch Seasoning

Making ranch seasoning at home is relatively simple, and best of all, you probably have most of the ingredients on hand already. Here are the things you will need:

1. Dried Herbs

To make homemade ranch seasoning, you will need to have some dried herbs on hand. The most commonly used herbs in this recipe are parsley, dill, and chives. You can either use these herbs in their fresh form or opt for the dried variety. However, if you choose to use fresh herbs, make sure that they are finely chopped before you mix them in with the other ingredients.

2. Garlic Powder and Onion Powder

Garlic powder and onion powder are two essential ingredients when it comes to making homemade ranch seasoning. These two powders give the seasoning a rich and savory taste that is perfect for adding flavor to any dish.

3. Salt and Pepper

Salt and pepper are the two most basic seasoning ingredients you will ever need in your kitchen. They are used in almost every recipe, including ranch seasoning. The amount of salt and pepper you use depends on your preference, but generally, you should add about a teaspoon of each.

4. Buttermilk Powder

Buttermilk powder is another key ingredient in ranch seasoning. It gives the seasoning its distinct tangy taste, which makes it perfect for adding to dressings, dips, and marinades.

5. Paprika

Paprika is a mild spice that adds a touch of smoky flavor to any dish. It is also a great ingredient to use in ranch seasoning as it helps to balance out the tangy taste of the buttermilk powder.

6. Lemon Zest

Lemon zest is a great ingredient to use in ranch seasoning as it adds a fresh, citrusy flavor to the mix. Make sure to zest the lemon before juicing it, as you will only need the outside layer of the peel.

7. Cayenne Pepper (Optional)

If you like your ranch seasoning to have a bit of a kick, you can add some cayenne pepper to the mix. Be careful, though, as cayenne pepper is pretty spicy, so you will only need to add a small amount.

8. Mixing Bowl

You will need a mixing bowl to combine all the ingredients. Choose a bowl that is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients with some room to spare.

9. Measuring Spoons

Measuring spoons are essential when it comes to making homemade ranch seasoning. Use them to measure out the appropriate amounts of each ingredient, so you get the perfect balance of flavors.

10. A Mason Jar or Storage Container

Once you have mixed all the ingredients, you will need to store your homemade ranch seasoning. Transfer it to a mason jar or storage container that has an airtight lid. This will help to keep the seasoning fresh for longer.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ranch Seasoning Mix

Now that you have decided to make your own ranch seasoning, it’s time to gather the needed ingredients. Here’s a quick rundown of everything you will require:

1. Dried Parsley: This will be used to add a pinch of herbaceous flavor to your seasoning mix.

2. Dried Dill: Dill provides a subtle hint of licorice flavour and is crucial in a great ranch seasoning.

3. Garlic Powder: Garlic is a tried and tested flavor in most dishes, and ranch seasoning is no exception.

4. Onion Powder: Onion powder adds an extra sweetness and depth to the seasoning mix.

5. Dried Chives: Not quite necessary, but it adds an extra pop of flavor to the seasoning.

6. Salt: Salt is essential, as it plays a crucial role in balancing the other flavors in the seasoning mix.

7. Black Pepper: A dash of ground black pepper provides a little bit of heat and depth in the seasoning blend.

8. Sour cream powder: Sour Cream powder is a must-have ingredient in the ranch seasoning mix. It provides that signature tangy, creamy flavor that we all love in ranch.

9. Buttermilk powder: Buttermilk powder adds the creamy richness and tanginess that we all expect in ranch seasoning.

10. Lemon juice powder: Finally, lemon juice powder provides the seasoning with a bright and zesty flavor.

It’s important to note that not all the ingredients are strictly necessary. It’s okay if you can’t find some ingredients. You can still make delicious ranch seasoning by using the ingredients you have available, and adjusting the flavors to suit your taste. You now know what you need to make your homemade ranch seasoning. It’s time to get mixing and creating your unique seasoning blend.

Ingredients for Making Ranch Seasoning

Making your own ranch seasoning from scratch is a great way to add a burst of flavor to your dishes. It’s easy to make and you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ingredients that are commonly used in homemade ranch seasoning:

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make Ranch Seasoning

Now that you have all the ingredients, let’s get started on how to make ranch seasoning:

Step 1: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, add the dried parsley, dried chives, dried dill weed, garlic powder, onion powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully combined.

Step 2: Store the Ranch Seasoning

You can store the ranch seasoning mix in an airtight container and keep it in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Step 3: Make Ranch Dressing

To make ranch dressing, you can mix the ranch seasoning with sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, or a combination of these ingredients. Start by combining 1 tablespoon of ranch seasoning mix with 2 tablespoons of your preferred base (sour cream, mayonnaise, or buttermilk) and mix well. Taste the dressing and adjust the seasoning according to your preference.

Step 4: Use Ranch Seasoning in Your Recipes

The possibilities are endless when it comes to using ranch seasoning in your recipes. Use it as a dry rub for chicken or pork, sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, or mix it into mashed potatoes. You can also use it as a seasoning for dips, sauces, and marinades.

Step 5: Customize the Ranch Seasoning to Your Liking

One of the great things about making your own ranch seasoning is that you can customize it to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier seasoning, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mix. If you like your ranch dressing to be tangier, add some white wine vinegar or lemon juice. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Give your Dishes a Flavorful Kick with Homemade Ranch Seasoning

Now that you know how to make ranch seasoning at home, go ahead and try it out! Whether you’re using it as a dip for your veggies, seasoning your potatoes, or making a creamy dressing for your salad, this seasoning is sure to elevate the flavor of your dishes. So, thank you for reading this article, and we hope it has inspired you to experiment with your own homemade seasonings. Be sure to come back for more easy and delicious recipes and kitchen hacks. Happy seasoning!