Homemade Taco Seasoning

I’ve finally come to the realization that I love recipes for things that you can easily buy at the store.  What’s easier than buying a package of taco seasoning?  But have you ever looked at the ingredients list?  There are usually some pretty weird things in there, just have a look.

I know for certain people, watching their salt intake is really important.  Not that it isn’t important for us all to keep an eye on how much salt we take in, but this way you can actively manage how much salt you’re adding. 

In fact, you can even leave the salt out completely and then add just as much as you need to your final meal, just a tiny pinch because we all do need a little salt in our diet. 

Not to mention just a little salt on top will help bring out the flavors without adding a ton of sodium.  To enhance the flavors a little more you can even add a squeeze of lemon or lime.  Or add some fresh salsa on top of your meal.  Yummy!

Wondering what to use this in? I think this chicken taco soup would be a great place to start!

[print_this]Homemade Taco Seasoning

• 8 tbsp chili powder
• 6 tbsp + 2 tsp paprika
• 6 tbsp cumin
• 4 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp cayenne
• 2 tbsp flour
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp black pepper
• Crushed red pepper, to taste

Mix all the spices together and store in an airtight container  Use 3 heaping tbsp along with 3/4-1 cup of water per 1 pound of ground meat or about 2 – 2 1/2 cups of a vegetarian alternative. You can also adjust the salt to taste if you prefer, although I’m pretty sure the recipe as is, is already less than a regular package of seasoning you buy from the store.  Be aware that you may need to add more spice to flavor your food.  This recipe makes quite a bit because I love to have it ready and waiting in my spice drawer in case I need it, but feel free to half it if you want.[/print_this]

I like using these on vegetarian burritos with refried beans, a tomato sauce and a sprinkle of this spice, whatever veggies you like and a little bit of cheese if you want.  All wrapped up in a warm tortilla.   Or my favorite way to use this is with leftover rice and beans.  I add a couple spoonfuls of spice to a bowl full of rice and beans and mix it, and then top with leftover veggies and heat it up or top with freshly roasted veggies.  A perfect lunch 🙂