Homemade Taco Seasoning Blend
This versatile taco seasoning blend is perfect for upgrading your taco nights! Inspired by a classic recipe I discovered back in 2005, I've adjusted the salt content to enhance the flavors without overwhelming your dishes. This spice mix combines the warmth of chili powder, the aromatic touch of dried onion and garlic, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes to create a balanced flavor profile. Use it to season ground beef, chicken, or even vegetables for your favorite taco recipes. With a generous batch that keeps well for up to a year, you'll always have a delicious seasoning mix on hand for your quick weeknight meals or party preparations.
N/A
Servings
10
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried onion, minced
1/4 cup (minced)
Chili powder
1/4 cup (none)
Salt
1 tablespoon (adjust to taste)
Cornstarch
4 teaspoons (none)
Dried garlic, minced
1 tablespoon (minced)
Cumin, ground
1 tablespoon (none)
Red pepper flakes, crushed
1 tablespoon (optional)
Beef bouillon granules
2 teaspoons (none)
Dried oregano
1 1/2 teaspoons (none)
Instructions
1
In a mixing bowl, combine the dried onion, chili powder, salt, cornstarch, dried garlic, cumin, red pepper flakes (if using), beef bouillon granules, and dried oregano.
2
Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3
Transfer the seasoning mix to an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.
4
To use, add 2 tablespoons of the seasoning mix to 1 pound of cooked and drained ground beef, along with 1/3 to 1/2 cup of water. Stir and cook until the liquid is reduced and flavors meld.
Nutrition Information
0.2g
Fat
2g
Carbs
0.2g
Protein
100mg
Sodium
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Homemade Taco Seasoning Blend?
It is a versatile and balanced spice mix combining chili powder, dried onion, garlic, cumin, and other savory ingredients to enhance the flavor of tacos and Mexican-inspired dishes.
How many ingredients are in this taco seasoning recipe?
This recipe includes 9 key ingredients: dried onion, chili powder, salt, cornstarch, dried garlic, ground cumin, red pepper flakes, beef bouillon granules, and dried oregano.
How much seasoning should I use per pound of meat?
You should use 2 tablespoons of the seasoning mix for every 1 pound of cooked and drained ground beef.
Do I need to add water when cooking with this seasoning?
Yes, you should add 1/3 to 1/2 cup of water along with the seasoning to help the flavors meld and create a sauce-like consistency.
How long does this homemade seasoning mix last?
When stored properly in an airtight container, this seasoning blend can keep well for up to one year.
What is the best way to store the taco seasoning?
Store the mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its freshness and potency.
Why is cornstarch included in the spice blend?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent, helping the seasoning and water coat the meat evenly and creating a better texture for the taco filling.
Is this taco seasoning spicy?
The recipe has a hint of heat from red pepper flakes and chili powder, but it is balanced. You can omit or reduce the red pepper flakes for a milder version.
Can I use this seasoning for chicken tacos?
Yes, this seasoning is versatile and works perfectly with ground chicken, shredded chicken, or even vegetables.
How many calories are in a serving of this seasoning?
There are approximately 10 calories per serving of this taco seasoning blend.
What is the sodium content per serving?
Each serving contains about 100mg of sodium, which has been adjusted to be flavorful without being overwhelming.
Can I adjust the amount of salt in this recipe?
Yes, you can easily adjust the salt to your personal taste or dietary requirements during the mixing process.
Is this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
As written, it contains beef bouillon granules. To make it vegetarian or vegan, you can substitute the beef bouillon with vegetable bouillon granules.
What type of onion is used in the mix?
The recipe calls for 1/4 cup of minced dried onion to provide texture and concentrated onion flavor.
Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
For a dry spice blend intended for long-term storage, dried oregano is necessary. Fresh oregano would introduce moisture and cause the mix to spoil.
How much fat is in this seasoning blend?
The seasoning blend is very low in fat, containing only about 0.2g per serving.
How do I prepare the seasoning?
Simply combine all the dried ingredients in a mixing bowl and stir until they are evenly distributed.
What are the carbohydrate and protein counts?
Each serving has approximately 2g of carbohydrates and 0.2g of protein.
Is this seasoning gluten-free?
While cornstarch is naturally gluten-free, you should check your beef bouillon granules and chili powder labels to ensure they do not contain hidden gluten or fillers.
Can I make a larger batch of this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is designed to create a generous batch that stores well, making it perfect for bulk preparation.
What is the primary flavor profile of this blend?
The profile is a balanced mix of earthy cumin, warm chili, aromatic garlic and onion, and a touch of herbal oregano.
Does this seasoning contain sugar?
No, this specific recipe does not contain any added sugar.
Can I use onion powder instead of minced dried onion?
Yes, but you may want to reduce the volume slightly as onion powder is more concentrated than minced dried onion.
How do I use this for weeknight meal prep?
Because it keeps for a year, you can pre-mix a large jar and simply scoop out 2 tablespoons whenever you need a quick taco dinner.
What should I do if the seasoning clumps?
If clumping occurs, it is likely due to moisture. Shake the container vigorously before use to break up any small clumps.
Is this seasoning suitable for taco salads?
Absolutely! Use the seasoned meat as the protein base for your taco salad for a delicious, authentic flavor.
Can I omit the beef bouillon?
You can, but the bouillon adds a depth of savory 'umami' flavor that rounds out the spices. If omitted, you might need a pinch more salt.
Does the recipe contain any cholesterol?
The seasoning mix itself does not contain cholesterol.
What makes this better than store-bought packets?
Homemade seasoning allows you to control the salt content, avoid artificial preservatives, and customize the heat level to your preference.
Is ground cumin necessary?
Yes, cumin is a foundational flavor in taco seasoning that provides the characteristic earthy aroma essential for Mexican cuisine.