Why Make Your Own Taco Seasoning?

You might wonder, “Why go through the trouble of making my own taco seasoning when I can simply buy it?” Well, let me share a few compelling reasons:

• Superior Flavor: Homemade seasoning can taste so much better.
• Transparency: You’ll know exactly what goes into your seasoning blend.
• Diet-Conscious: It’s gluten-free and sugar-free, while store-bought versions often contain additives.
• Customization: You have the freedom to adjust the flavor profile by adding or omitting spices.
• Cost-Effective: You can save money, especially if you already have the spices needed.
• Emergency Backup: In case you’re in a pinch without any seasoning on hand, making it is quick and easy!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create your delicious taco seasoning:

For Mild Taco Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons sweet or smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• ½ to 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 teaspoons salt

For Hot Taco Seasoning:

To give your seasoning a spicy kick, simply add:

• ½ to 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

How to Make Taco Seasoning from Scratch

Once you try making your own taco seasoning, you’ll definitely question why you ever bought it from the store. The process is simple and fast! Here’s how to do it:

Instructions

1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl.
2. Mix until evenly combined and then transfer to an airtight jar.

You can also opt to mix everything directly in the jar where you’ll be storing it and shake until well combined.

Substitutions and Add-Ins

This taco seasoning recipe is incredibly versatile. Don’t hesitate to play around with the ingredients based on your preferences:

• Dried herbs: You can substitute parsley or basil instead of oregano.
• Sweet Paprika: Feel free to use smoked paprika but avoid hot paprika.
• Cayenne: Red pepper flakes can be a good substitute or be completely omitted for a mild version.
• Thickeners: For a thicker mixture, consider adding 1 teaspoon of cornstarch or 2 teaspoons of flour.
• Sweetness: A teaspoon of brown sugar can help counterbalance spiciness.
• Tomato flavor: Add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato powder for a richer taste.

Storage and Shelf Life

When stored properly in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, your homemade taco seasoning will keep for as long as the spices used in the blend. For the best flavor, use it within 6 months.

How to Use Taco Seasoning?

Your homemade taco seasoning isn’t just limited to tacos! Here are some scrumptious ways to use it:

• Tacos
• Burritos
• Fajitas
• Quesadillas
• Nachos
• Vegetable soups and even salads

As a guideline, you can generally use 1 tablespoon of seasoning for every pound of meat or protein.