Taco Seasoning
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You can use this Homemade Taco Seasoning in lots of recipes, like tacos, taco dip, or chili. It only takes about 5 minutes to mix together with spices you likely already have, and it tastes much better than store-bought packets.
This recipe happened a little by accident. I had no dinner planned, no time to make anything that was too involved, and the family was begging for tacos. The only problem? I didn't have any taco seasoning packets in the pantry. It turns out, making this homemade is simple and uses common seasonings that you probably have in your spice cupboard right now.
Here's Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's ready in 5 minutes. Just mix together a few spices you probably already have at home.
- You control the heat and salt. Adjust the cayenne and salt to suit your taste, which you can't do with a packet mix.
- It's very versatile. Try it in tacos, taco dip, chili, or other dishes.
- It keeps for months. Make a batch once, and you're set for taco night for a long time.
Ingredients You'll Need
The recipe card at the bottom of the post contains the full list with all of the amounts. Refer to that when you're cooking.
- Chili powder: The backbone of the seasoning blend.
- Ground cumin: Adds warm, earthy flavor that's essential to classic taco seasoning.
- Smoked paprika: Gives a hint of smokiness and a rich color.
- Garlic powder: Adds savory depth.
- Onion powder: Complements the garlic and adds more savory flavor.
- Kosher salt: Balances and brings out the flavors of the other spices.
- Black pepper: Adds a bit of sharpness.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): Add this if you like your tacos spicy. Leave it out if you prefer a milder blend.
In Photos: How To Make Taco Seasoning
Step 1: Add Ingredients To A Jar
Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper and cayenne pepper, if using, to a small bowl or jar.
Step 2: Mix
Stir or shake until thoroughly combined.
Helpful Tips and Tricks
- Use fresh spices. For the best tasting spice blend, use fresh spices. Older spices lose their flavor potency and will result in a bland mix.
- Use 2 to 3 tablespoons per pound of ground meat. Add about ⅓ to ½ cup of water or broth while cooking to help the seasoning coat the meat and make a little sauce.
- Double or triple the batch. Since it lasts for months, making more at once will save you time later.
- Adjust the heat to your liking. Start with a little cayenne, and add more next time if you want it spicier.
- Storage: Keep the seasoning in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional: ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- Add the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper and cayenne pepper, if using, to a small bowl or jar.
- Stir or shake until thoroughly combined.
- Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Notes
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