CU-SO Seasoning has maintained a loyal following since its introduction in the mid-20th century. This all-purpose blend delivers consistent flavor enhancement across numerous culinary applications, making it a staple in many American kitchens. Unlike single-ingredient seasonings, CU-SO provides a balanced combination of flavors that work harmoniously to elevate simple dishes without overwhelming them.
History of CU-SO Season All
Originally created in 1953 by the CU-SO Chemical Company of Chicago, this seasoning blend was initially marketed as a meat tenderizer and flavor enhancer. The name "CU-SO" derived from the company's name rather than any specific ingredients. By the 1960s, CU-SO Season All had become a household name, commonly found in kitchen pantries across America. The product changed hands several times over the decades, with ownership passing from CU-SO Chemical to Beatrice Foods, then to International Home Foods, and eventually to Kraft Heinz. During a period of corporate restructuring around 2008, CU-SO Seasoning was temporarily discontinued, causing disappointment among loyal users. Fortunately, due to persistent consumer demand, the product was reintroduced in 2019 under the Kraft Heinz portfolio, though with slightly modified packaging.
Ingredients and Flavor Profile
Understanding what is CU-SO seasoning made of helps explain its versatile appeal. The current ingredient list includes: salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, spices, silicon dioxide (an anti-caking agent), and extractives of paprika. This straightforward formulation creates a balanced flavor profile that enhances rather than dominates dishes. The salt content provides necessary seasoning while the garlic and onion powders deliver savory depth. Paprika contributes both color and a subtle sweetness, while the "spices" component (typically including black pepper and possibly others like oregano or thyme) adds complexity without heat.
| Key Ingredients | Flavor Contribution | Common Culinary Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Salt | Base seasoning, enhances other flavors | General seasoning for all dishes |
| Garlic powder | Savory, aromatic depth | Meats, roasted vegetables, sauces |
| Onion powder | Sweetness, umami foundation | Gravies, soups, meat rubs |
| Paprika | Color, mild sweetness | Chicken, fish, deviled eggs |
| Spices blend | Complexity, subtle heat | All-purpose seasoning |
CU-SO Seasoning vs. Comparable Products
When considering CU-SO seasoning vs Lawry's Seasoned Salt, several distinctions emerge. While both are all-purpose blends, Lawry's contains additional ingredients like cornstarch and sugar, giving it a slightly sweeter profile. Morton Tenderizer Seasoning contains meat tenderizing enzymes (papain) that CU-SO lacks. The advantage of CU-SO lies in its simplicity—fewer ingredients mean more predictable results across various cooking methods.
Unlike some modern seasoning blends that emphasize heat or specific regional flavors, CU-SO maintains a classic American profile that works across multiple cuisines. Home cooks searching for how to use CU-SO seasoning all appreciate its versatility—it seasons without dominating, making it suitable for everyday cooking where bold specialty flavors might be inappropriate.
Practical Applications in Cooking
The true value of CU-SO Seasoning becomes apparent in daily cooking applications. For meats, apply generously to chicken, pork, or beef before roasting or grilling—typically 1 teaspoon per pound of meat. When preparing vegetables, toss roasted or sautéed vegetables with 1/2 teaspoon of CU-SO per serving. In soups and stews, add 1/4-1/2 teaspoon toward the end of cooking to enhance overall flavor without making the dish overly salty.
One of the most appreciated CU-SO seasoning recipes involves simple roasted potatoes: toss quartered potatoes with olive oil, 1 teaspoon CU-SO per pound of potatoes, and roast at 400°F until crispy. The seasoning creates a flavorful crust while allowing the natural potato flavor to shine through—a perfect example of how this blend enhances rather than masks.
Availability and Substitutes
Many home cooks wonder is CU-SO seasoning still available. Yes, though its distribution remains somewhat limited compared to major brands. You can typically find CU-SO Season All in the spice aisle of larger grocery stores, particularly in the Midwest where it maintains strongest brand recognition. Online retailers like Amazon and Walmart.com also carry it, making it accessible nationwide. When searching where to buy CU-SO seasoning, check the "ethnic foods" or "international" section of some stores, as it's sometimes merchandised there due to its long history.
For those unable to locate authentic CU-SO, a homemade CU-SO seasoning substitute works well: combine 2 tablespoons salt, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 2 teaspoons paprika, and 1 teaspoon black pepper. Store in an airtight container for up to six months. This blend captures the essential flavor profile while allowing customization to personal taste preferences.
Storage and Shelf Life
Proper storage ensures CU-SO Seasoning maintains its flavor potency. Keep the container tightly sealed in a cool, dark place away from heat sources like stoves or ovens. When stored properly, CU-SO retains optimal flavor for 1-2 years, though it remains safe to consume indefinitely. The anti-caking agents in commercial blends help maintain texture, but homemade versions may require occasional shaking to prevent clumping.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between CU-SO Season All and regular salt?
CU-SO Season All contains salt as its primary ingredient but also includes garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and other spices. This combination creates a more complex flavor profile that enhances dishes beyond simple salting. Regular salt provides only sodium enhancement without additional flavor dimensions.
Can I use CU-SO Seasoning in place of garlic salt?
Yes, CU-SO works as an excellent substitute for garlic salt since it contains both salt and garlic powder, plus additional flavor enhancers. Use approximately 1.5 times the amount of CU-SO compared to garlic salt in recipes, as the garlic flavor is less concentrated in the all-purpose blend.
Is CU-SO Seasoning suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
CU-SO Seasoning contains only spices and salt with no artificial additives, making it suitable for most dietary preferences. However, those on sodium-restricted diets should use it sparingly or seek low-sodium alternatives, as salt remains the primary ingredient. The product is naturally gluten-free and contains no common allergens.
How does CU-SO compare to other all-purpose seasonings like Mrs. Dash?
CU-SO contains salt as its primary ingredient, while salt-free alternatives like Mrs. Dash use potassium chloride or other salt substitutes. CU-SO delivers a more traditional savory flavor profile preferred for meat dishes, whereas salt-free blends often have more pronounced herb flavors. CU-SO works better for applications where salt content is desirable, such as meat rubs and roasted vegetables.
What are the best dishes to use CU-SO Seasoning with?
CU-SO excels with roasted or grilled meats (particularly chicken and pork), roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, soups, and stews. It works especially well as a finishing seasoning for deviled eggs and salad dressings. Many home cooks consider it the perfect seasoning for classic American comfort foods where a balanced, savory flavor enhancement is desired without regional flavor specificity.
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