Homemade Taco Seasoning

I live in Taco Country, aka San Antonio, Texas. Tacos are a religious experience here, so it only makes sense that the condiments are handcrafted and uniquely made by me.

This taco seasoning is a spice blend that’s smoky and herbaceous. It eliminates the need to pull out multiple spice jars when you get a craving for big, bold flavors. It covers all the spice bases for your next epic Taco Tuesday.

This taco seasoning starts with chili powder. Chili powder is not spicy. In fact, it’s a blend of spices: ground red chillies, oregano, garlic, and sometimes salt. It’s mild without being overwhelmingly hot.

Cumin is a must in taco seasoning. It gives the tacos a smoky umami flavor. Garlic and onion add a pungent flavor to your taco seasoning, and oregano and cilantro add more warmth and earthy flavors.

Although this spice isn’t hot, you can always increase the heat by adding a pinch or two of cayenne pepper.

Much for now or later

This recipe makes about 1/2 cup – it’s easy to whip up and keep in your cupboard to have on hand. It’s also enough to season 8 pounds of ground beef—that’s 2 tablespoons of taco seasoning for every pound of ground beef (or any other meat you prefer). You can always add a little more or less.

Make it your own!

• Use chipotle or ancho chili powder, or a combination of both. It will taste smokier.
• Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper for a spicier spice blend.
• For a low-sodium version, reduce the kosher salt in the recipe to 2 1/2 teaspoons.

Think beyond tacos

The recipe was designed for tacos, but use it like any other condiment mix. My favorite: seasoning taco meat. And taco meat means meat for nachos, quesadillas or taco bowls.

It also flavors chicken, seafood, and pork. If you plan to use it on fish, reduce the amount to 2 teaspoons per pound of fish. Are you a fan of a good Bloody Mary? Use this to line your cocktail glass. Sprinkle over grilled or roasted vegetables, or stir into your next batch of enchilada sauce or chili.

Here’s how to store this DIY taco seasoning

Stored properly, spice mixes can last 2 years, although mine never sit around that long. Store in an airtight container or lidded jar in a cool, dark place.

Avoid storing it near a heat source or moisture. The spices like to absorb moisture, causing them to mold or clump. If it clumps, shake the container vigorously before use.

Spice mixes galore

• Burger Seasoning
• Pumpkin Pie Spice Blend
• Basic pickle mix
• Best dry rub for steak
• Best dry rub for fish and seafood