What’s Bell’s Seasoning explains the classic Thanksgiving spice mix that’s a staple in the Northeast. David Leite talks to us about why it’s so important.
Recently I was amazed – just amazed, I tell you – when I mentioned Bell’s Seasoning to the LC staff. They all just looked at me. Speechless. Confused. Confused.
They had never heard of it.
When they asked what it was, all I could do was repeat “Bell’s Seasoning” over and over.
To me, Bell’s Seasoning is something so essential to Thanksgiving cooking that it defies definition. At least, that’s what I thought. Unless you’re a born-and-bred Yankee, Bell’s (as we call it over here) might be unknown. It’s always been so elemental, so ubiquitous, so fundamental to my turkey and stuffing, it’s one of a few beings known only by their first names, like Cher, Diana, Bette, Madonna, and Christ.
And this is what you MUST know for Thanksgiving.
What is Bell’s Seasoning?
Bell’s Seasoning is a salt-free seasoning for poultry – a unique blend of herbs and spices created in Boston in 1867 by William G. Bell. It consists of ground rosemary, oregano, sage, ginger, marjoram, thyme and pepper.
Is Bell’s Seasoning gluten free?
Yes. And not only that, it’s vegan. Also, it contains no salt, preservatives, additives or artificial ingredients. Clearly, Mr. Bell was way ahead of his time.
What can I use Bell’s Seasoning for?
The better question is: what tip I use it? The first stop at Thanksgiving is, of course, the turkey. A generous splash of melted butter in a small bowl is enough to make a herb sauce for your bird.
But don’t stop there. It’s great for stuffing—especially old-fashioned sausage fillings like homemade cornbread sausage dressing or sourdough dressing with sausage and prunes. And it wouldn’t look out of place in my godmother Dina’s potato dressing, either.
It’s even great in pumpkin soup and that much-needed Bloody Mary just before the in-laws arrive for the holiday weekend.
Where can I buy Bell’s Seasoning?
If you live in the Northeast you know where to get it. (In fact, I bet you already have a box in your closet at Dunkin’ Donuts.) If you’re visiting the Northeast, you probably know where to snag a box. For the rest of you, allow me to rock your world.
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