Who doesn’t love a good taco night? With this spicy homemade taco seasoning, you can turn any type of meat into a flavorful fiesta. Packed with a punch, this blend is perfect for those who like a bit of heat in their meals. Say goodbye to store-bought packets and hello to a fresh, zesty mix you can whip up in minutes.
Steps
- Combine the spices by adding chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper into a small mixing bowl. Stir the ingredients until they are well blended.
- Use the seasoning immediately by adding it to your favorite dishes or store it for future use. Place the mixture in an airtight container, where it will remain fresh for up to a year.
- To store efficiently, consider making a larger batch by doubling or tripling the recipe. Use a kitchen funnel to transfer the mix into glass spice jars, labeling them with an extra-fine paint pen for easy identification.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (or smoked paprika)
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- A pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 46kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 2g | Fat: 1g | Sodium: 1300mg | Potassium: 228mg | Fiber: 3g | Vitamin A: 2940IU | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 3.1mg
FAQ
- What makes homemade taco seasoning better than store-bought?
- Homemade taco seasoning offers a fresher and more vibrant flavor because it uses freshly mixed spices. Additionally, you have the flexibility to adjust the flavor to your liking, whether you want to make it spicier or less so. It also eliminates unnecessary fillers and preservatives found in many store-bought versions.
- How do I store homemade taco seasoning, and how long does it last?
- Store your homemade taco seasoning in an airtight container, such as a glass spice jar, to keep it fresh. When stored properly, it can last up to one year.
- How much taco seasoning should I use per pound of meat?
- Use approximately 2 tablespoons of this homemade taco seasoning for each pound of protein, which is equivalent to one packet of store-bought seasoning.
- Can I customize the taco seasoning recipe to my taste?
- Absolutely! You can adjust the recipe to suit your taste preferences. For instance, if you prefer a spicier mix, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- What are some other uses for taco seasoning besides tacos?
- Taco seasoning can be used in a variety of dishes beyond tacos. It’s great for seasoning meats, seafood, vegetables, soups, and stews, providing a delicious Mexican flair to any meal.
Tips
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a spicier taco seasoning, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to give it an extra kick. Adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
- Avoid Fillers: Making taco seasoning at home allows you to skip unnecessary fillers like cornstarch and preservatives found in store-bought packets, resulting in a purer and more flavorful blend.
- Batch and Store: To ensure you always have taco seasoning on hand, double or triple the recipe and store it in an airtight container. This way, you’ll be ready for taco night whenever the craving strikes.
- Choose Your Paprika: You can use either sweet or smoky paprika depending on your taste preference. Both add depth to the seasoning, so feel free to experiment to find the flavor you enjoy most.
Equipment
- Glass Spice Jars – For storing the homemade taco seasoning.
- Kitchen Funnel – To easily fill the spice jars without spilling.
- Extra-Fine Paint Pen – For labeling the spice jars.
