The Good Gourmet Cajun Spice Mix 

Perhaps you've seen a famous TV chef refer to something like this as "essence."  Basically, it is a mix of herbs and spices with some heat that is used to season a wide variety of New Orleans style dishes.  Here is our version.  You can buy it mixed and ready to use at the store or, if you prefer, you can mix it yourself.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup sweet paprika
2 1/2 tbsp. cayenne pepper 
2 1/2 tbsp garlic powder
2 1/2 tbsp.onion powder
1 1/2 tbsp. ground black pepper
1 1/2 tbsp ground white pepper
1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp Kosher salt

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.  Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.