Auntie Nono’s Everything Seasoning Copycat Recipe: Savory All-Purpose Blend for Every Meal

I’ve spent years perfecting this savory blend to match the iconic flavor of the original. This all-purpose seasoning brings depth to everything from roasted vegetables to grilled meats, with no artificial additives.

The mix combines coarse salt, sesame seeds, garlic, and onion for a balanced, umami-rich finish. It’s simple to make and keeps for months in an airtight container.

Use it on avocado toast, scrambled eggs, or even popcorn for an instant flavor boost. The versatility makes it a pantry staple.

Store in a cool, dry place and shake before each use to distribute the spices evenly.

Ingredients for Auntie Nono’s Everything Seasoning Copycat

Eight simple ingredients recreate this iconic all-purpose seasoning blend at home.

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The coarse salt is the foundation here. Diamond Crystal kosher salt is my go-to—it dissolves perfectly and has that clean, flaky texture. Sesame seeds add the nutty crunch, and I always grab mine from the bulk bins at Whole Foods or Sprouts. They keep longer if you toast them first, but raw works too. The garlic and onion powders need to be fresh—if yours smells like nothing, it’s time to replace.

No poppy seeds? Skip them—flax seeds or chia seeds add a similar crunch. Black sesame seeds are just for looks, so feel free to leave them out. If you want more umami, try adding half the amount of dried mushrooms (powdered in a spice grinder). For a finer texture, pulse everything in a food processor for a few seconds. The minced garlic and onion add little bursts of flavor.

This stays fresh for 6-12 months in an airtight container. Keep it in a cool, dark cabinet—no fridge needed. I make double batches and give them away in little jars (they make great gifts). Just shake before using to redistribute the spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Everything Seasoning

Here’s the method. Straightforward, tested, works every time.

Step 1: Combine the Salt and Powdered Spices

In a medium bowl, add all 2 tbsp Coarse Salt, 1 tbsp Garlic Powder, and 1 tbsp Onion Powder. These form the flavor foundation of your blend, so start with them first.

I like to whisk them together until fully combined—this prevents any clumps and ensures even distribution. The coarse salt adds texture and enhances the other flavors, while the powders create that signature savory depth.

Step 2: Add the Dried Minced Ingredients

Next, add the 1 tsp Dried Minced Garlic and 1 tsp Dried Minced Onion to the bowl. These add subtle texture contrast and an extra layer of flavor, but they’re finer than the seeds, so they won’t overpower the mix.

Whisk again until everything is evenly incorporated. This step ensures the dried minced pieces don’t settle at the bottom, creating an inconsistent blend. You’ll notice the mixture becoming slightly more granular—this is normal.

Step 3: Incorporate the Seeds for Texture and Visual Appeal

Now, add the 2 tbsp Sesame Seeds, 1 tsp Black Sesame Seeds, and 1 tsp Poppy Seeds. The sesame seeds bring nuttiness, while the poppy seeds add a delicate crunch. The black sesame seeds are optional but create a striking visual contrast.

Stir gently with a spoon or spatula—don’t whisk too aggressively, or you’ll crush the seeds. You want to preserve their texture. The blend should look uniform, with the seeds evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Step 4: Store and Use for Maximum Freshness

Transfer the finished seasoning to an airtight container. I prefer a glass jar with a tight-sealing lid to keep moisture out. Store it in a cool, dark place like your pantry to preserve the flavors.

This blend will keep for 3-4 months, but I doubt it’ll last that long—it’s too good. Use it on everything from avocado toast to roasted vegetables, or sprinkle it over hummus for an instant flavor boost.

Pro Cooking Tips for Great auntie nonos everything seasoning copycat

Precise Measuring

Use a proper measuring set for accuracy—I swear by OXO Good Grips for consistent results. Level off each spoon with the back of a butter knife to avoid packed ingredients. Even ½ tsp extra of garlic powder can throw off the balance in this delicate blend. 💡

Toast for Extra Flavor

For deeper nuttiness, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes until golden. Let them cool completely before mixing. I do this every time—it makes a noticeable difference in the final flavor.

Even Distribution Trick

After combining, spread the mix on a baking sheet and gently shake to distribute seeds evenly. This prevents clumping at the bottom of your storage jar. I learned this trick from my Nonna—simple but effective.

Storage Pro Tips

Use a glass jar with a wide mouth for easy scooping. I label mine with the date using a chalkboard label. Keep it away from the stove to prevent moisture absorption.

Freshness Test

If your blend smells dull after a few months, it’s past its prime. The sesame seeds are the first to lose their aroma. I make fresh batches every 2 months because we use it so often. 🔥

Usage Hack

For a finer texture, pulse the blend in a spice grinder for 5-10 seconds. This works great for sprinkling on popcorn or salads. Just don’t over-grind or you’ll lose the seed texture.

Frequently Asked Questions