Pickling Spice Blend for Crab & Shrimp Boils

1 tablespoon mustard seeds 1 tablespoon black peppercorns 1 tablespoon whole cloves 2 teaspoons whole allspice 2 teaspoons coriander seeds 2 teaspoons dill seeds 1 teaspoon ground ginger 1 teaspoon celery seed 1 teaspoon dried oregano 5 dried bay leaves 1/2 teaspoon red chile flakes (optional)

Mix all ingredients until well-blended and store in an airtight container in a cool dark place.

Note: Ground spices tend to make the brine a little cloudy. If this bothers you, use a small piece of ginger root in your recipe instead.