Homemade Taco Seasoning From Scratch

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Take your tacos up a notch with this flavorful blend of spices crafted in your kitchen. This homemade taco seasoning is made from scratch.

Making your own taco seasoning from scratch is a simple yet flavorful way to enhance your favorite Mexican dishes. By creating your own blend of spices, you can fully control the ingredients and customize the flavors to suit your taste.

Not only is homemade taco seasoning cheaper and healthier than store-bought options, but it also allows for versatility in cooking. Skip the store-bought spices and make your taco seasoning at home. You most likely have all the spices on hand, and if not, they’re easy to get!

The perfect combination of Mexican flavors for any of your taco needs and can be used in the easy Sheet Pan Beef Nachos or any of the taco recipes below.

This Recipe Is…

• Homemade taco seasoning lets you control the ingredients and tailor the flavors to your liking.
• It is a cost-effective and healthier alternative to buying pre-packaged options.
• Properly storing homemade taco seasoning in an airtight container in a cool and dark place can extend its shelf life.
• Homemade taco seasoning can be used in a variety of dishes, adding flavor and depth to your cooking.
• By making your own taco seasoning, you can enjoy fresh and flavorful Mexican-inspired meals whenever you desire.

Ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon American Chili Powder
• 2 Teaspoons Ground Cumin
• 2 Teaspoons Garlic Powder
• 2 Teaspoons Onion Powder
• 1 Teaspoon Smoked Paprika
• 1 Teaspoon Oregano
• ½ Teaspoon Cracked Black Pepper
• ¼ Teaspoon Salt

Prep Time: 5 Minutes | Yields: About 4 Tablespoons

Taco Seasoning Recipe

1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl or jar and mix well. 

1. Use immediately, or store in the pantry for 10-12 months. 

Tips

• When using this seasoning, add a bit of cornstarch to your meat to help the flavor stick to the meat. It greatly assists the flavor department.
• If you’re not a huge fan of garlic or onion flavors, reduce the onion and garlic powder by half.
• Add a ½ teaspoon of crushed red peppers if you want a spicy kick.
• Like a touch of sweetness? Add a teaspoon of sugar. 
• Depending on your brand, 3-4 Tablespoons usually equals one packet. You can always start with 2 Tablespoons and add to your preferences. 
• Once you’ve used the seasoning, you can adjust the spices to match your tastes. 
• Be aware that chili powders vary depending on the country they originate from. Each one has a different blend of spices, which can drastically change the flavor of your seasoning. 

Why Make Your Own Taco Seasoning?

Making your taco seasoning from scratch gives you full control over the ingredients that go into it. Unlike store-bought packets, which may contain additives, preservatives, and excess sodium, homemade taco seasoning allows you to use quality spices without unwanted extras.

Additionally, making your own seasoning allows you to customize the flavors. Whether you prefer it spicy, smoky, or mild, you can adjust the ratios of different spices to create the perfect blend.

You can tailor the blend to suit your taste. Whether you enjoy a bold and spicy kick or a milder, more subtle taste, you can adjust the ratios of different spices and herbs to create a seasoning that matches your preferences.

Storing Your Taco Seasoning for Freshness

Properly storing your homemade taco seasoning is crucial for maintaining its freshness and flavor. When it comes to choosing the right container, opt for an airtight option that will effectively protect the seasoning from exposure to air, moisture, and light.

One popular choice for storing spices is glass jars with tight-fitting lids. These jars provide an excellent barrier against external elements that could compromise the quality of your homemade seasoning.

Best Practices for Spice Shelf-Life

1. Store your taco seasoning in a cool and dark place, such as a pantry or cabinet. Heat and light can quickly degrade the spices, so it’s important to keep them away from direct sunlight or high temperatures.
2. Always ensure that the container is tightly sealed after each use to prevent air and moisture from entering. This will help to maintain the optimal flavor and aroma of your homemade taco seasoning.
3. Consider labeling your container with the date of preparation to keep track of its shelf-life. Homemade taco seasoning can typically stay fresh for up to six months when stored properly.
4. Avoid storing your taco seasoning near strong-smelling spices or cleaning products, as they can affect the flavor and aroma. Spices are highly absorbent, so it’s essential to keep them away from any potential odors.
5. For convenience, you can also portion out your taco seasoning into smaller containers or resealable bags. This allows you to have smaller amounts readily available while keeping the rest stored safely.

By following these best practices, you can extend the shelf-life of your homemade taco seasoning and ensure that it stays fresh and flavorful for all your Mexican-inspired dishes.

How to Use Taco Seasoning

While homemade taco seasoning is perfect for seasoning ground meat for tacos, it can also be used to spice up a wide range of dishes.

1. Add it to your favorite chili or stew recipe to give it a Mexican-inspired twist.
2. Use it to season roasted vegetables or grilled chicken for a flavor-packed meal.
3. Whip up a creamy taco dip by mixing it into sour cream or Greek yogurt.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating this versatile spice mix into your cooking.