Ranch seasoning is a popular blend of herbs, spices, and other ingredients commonly used to flavor things like salad dressings, dips, and chicken wings. It is available in two main forms – individual seasoning packets and larger shaker bottles. So what’s the difference, and are they interchangeable? Let’s take a closer look.
Background on Ranch Seasoning
Ranch dressing first became popular in the 1950s at the Hidden Valley Ranch near Santa Barbara, California. The dressing was served to guests at the ranch, and it became so well-liked that the recipe was eventually bottled and sold commercially starting in the early 1960s.
The characteristic ranch flavor comes from a combination of herbs, spices, and other ingredients like garlic, onion, and buttermilk. While recipes can vary, some common seasonings in ranch dressing include:
– Parsley
– Dill
– Garlic powder
– Onion powder
– Black pepper
– Salt
– Dried onion flakes
– Monosodium glutamate (MSG)
– Buttermilk powder
As ranch dressing grew in popularity over the decades, food companies started selling ranch seasoning on its own, without the other wet ingredients, to allow people to add ranch flavor to dishes easily. This is when ranch seasoning packets and shakers first became available.
Comparing Ranch Seasoning Packets and Shakers
So how does pre-made ranch seasoning in a packet compare to ranch seasoning you buy in a shaker bottle? Here are the main similarities and differences:
Similarities
– Both contain common dried ranch seasoning ingredients like garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, parsley, dill, and salt.
– Both are quick and convenient ways to add ranch flavor without needing to mix up all the ingredients from scratch.
– They can usually be used interchangeably in recipes, depending on amounts.
Differences
Ingredients
– Packet ranch seasoning contains buttermilk powder while shaker ranch seasoning does not. The buttermilk powder adds a tangy dairy flavor.
– Shaker ranch seasoning usually contains dried onion flakes while packet seasoning does not. The flakes provide texture and onion flavor.
– Shaker ranch seasoning often contains anti-caking agents to keep the seasoning free-flowing. Packets generally don’t need an anti-caking agent.
Flavor
– Because of the extra ingredients like buttermilk powder, packet ranch seasoning often has a more complex, tangy flavor profile compared to shaker seasoning.
– Shaker ranch seasoning tastes more strongly of dried herbs and spices. The flavor is simpler without the buttermilk.
Convenience
– Packet ranch seasoning is extremely portable and convenient for tossing on the go with things like chicken nuggets or fries since it’s pre-portioned.
– Shaker ranch seasoning allows you to shake out just as much as you need for any given recipe or use. There’s no waste from partial packets.
Cost
– Packet ranch seasoning costs more per ounce compared to shaker bottles. You’re paying for the convenience of individual packs.
– Shaker bottles offer more ranch seasoning for a lower cost overall. You can buy larger quantities.
Nutrition Comparison
In terms of nutrition, ranch seasoning packets and shakers are fairly similar, since the ingredients are largely the same standard dried herbs and spices. However, there are a few differences:
Calories and Macronutrients
– Packet ranch seasoning: 30-35 calories, 1g fat, 430mg sodium per packet
– Shaker ranch seasoning: 15 calories, 0g fat, 300mg sodium per 1⁄4 tsp
– The packet is higher in calories and sodium due to containing more seasoning per serving.
Micronutrients
Both packet and shaker ranch seasoning provide:
– Vitamin A
– Vitamin C
– Iron
– Calcium
– Potassium
Again, the packet contains higher amounts of these nutrients since the serving size is larger. The shaker bottle would provide comparable nutrient levels if using a matching 1 packet amount.
Cost Comparison
| Product | Ounces | Cost | Price Per Ounce |
|-|-|-|-|
| Hidden Valley Ranch Packet, 1 oz | 1 | $0.05 | $0.05 |
| McCormick Ranch Packet, 1.62 oz | 1.62 | $0.10 | $0.06 |
| Great Value Ranch Packet, 1.25 oz | 1.25 | $0.03 | $0.02 |
| Hidden Valley Ranch Shaker, 2.5 oz | 2.5 | $2.99 | $1.20 |
| McCormick Ranch Shaker, 6 oz | 6 | $3.49 | $0.58 |
| Great Value Ranch Shaker, 6.5 oz | 6.5 | $2.78 | $0.43 |
Based on the table above, ranch seasoning packets are significantly more expensive per ounce compared to shaker bottles. Off-brand shaker ranch seasoning offers the best value overall.
Uses for Ranch Seasoning
Here are some of the most popular ways to use either ranch seasoning packet or shakers:
Salad Dressings and Dips
Whisk ranch seasoning into mayonnaise, sour cream, or plain yogurt to make quick salad dressings, vegetable dips, and chip dips. Add 1 packet or 1-2 teaspoons shaker per 1 cup.
Seasoned Baked Potatoes
Sprinkle ranch seasoning on baked potatoes in place of regular salt and pepper. Use 1 packet or 1⁄4-1⁄2 teaspoon shaker per medium potato.
Seasoned Popcorn
Drizzle popped popcorn with olive oil or melted butter and sprinkle on ranch seasoning for a flavored snack. Use 1⁄2 packet or 1⁄4 teaspoon per 2-3 cups popcorn.
Chicken and Fish
Coat raw chicken breasts, fish fillets, shrimp or salmon with olive oil and liberally coat with ranch seasoning before baking or air frying. It gives a flavorful crust.
Vegetables
Toss ranch seasoning with roasted veggies like carrots, broccoli, cauliflower or zucchini before roasting for added flavor. Use 1⁄2 packet or 1⁄4 teaspoon per pound of vegetables.
Pizza Flavor Boost
Sprinkle ranch seasoning on pizza crust before adding toppings or over the cooked pizza to amp up the flavor. Use 1⁄2 packet or 1⁄4 teaspoon for a normal sized pizza.
Conclusion
While the ingredients differ slightly between ranch seasoning packets versus shakers, they can generally be used interchangeably in recipes depending on the amounts. Packets offer portable, pre-measured convenience while shaker bottles provide more seasoning for a lower cost overall. Choose whichever fits your budget and needs! The flavor will be comparable, and you’ll end up with deliciously ranch seasoned food regardless of which type you use.