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Swapping Seasonings

By: Josephine Ledda, CHN Nutritionist at Sutphin Blvd.
Different seasonings spread over a table

Lower your sodium intake using homemade seasonings

Did you know?

  • Sodium is a part of salt. It is a nutrient used for preserving foods. Too much sodium can lead to high blood pressure.
  • Sometimes foods that don’t taste salty can be surprisingly high in sodium, like bread or bagels.
  • Ready-made, packaged seasonings can be very high in sodium.
  • 1 Tablespoon of Maggi seasoning has almost the entire amount of sodium recommended for Americans to eat for the whole day.
  • The serving size of Goya Adobo is 1/4 of a teaspoon, which is about the size of a nickel.
  • Check the Nutrition Facts Label for sodium and the serving size.

Nutrition Facts Label

Try these easy seasoning swaps instead:

  • Blend herbs, garlic, lemon and olive oil for a flavorful dressing or marinade.
  • Check the ingredient list of your favorite, store-bought seasonings. Try making a low-salt version at home.
  • Try adding chicken, beef, or vegetable stock as a tasty addition that can add depth to many recipes.
  • Add spice and heat to a dish to increase flavor of low sodium recipes – just be sure to measure!
  • Measure portion sizes of seasonings. It’s good to practice with a measuring spoon first so you can learn how to eyeball a serving.

How to Make Homemade Adobo

Adobo seasoning in a small bowl.
Ingredients:
(Makes 1 small jar)

  • 2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon oregano powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon coriander

To prepare:

  1. Pour all seasonings into a mixing bowl.
  2. Mix ingredients well.
  3. Pour into a small jar. Use it for marinades, soups and any of your favorite dishes!
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