Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Versatile Mexican Spice Blend?
This is a homemade combination of rich, earthy spices designed to elevate Mexican and Latin American dishes without the MSG or artificial flavors found in store-bought packets.
What are the primary ingredients in this Mexican spice blend?
The blend consists of chili powder, paprika, cornmeal, cumin, oregano, onion powder, ground coriander, and cayenne pepper.
How many calories are in one serving of this spice blend?
Each serving contains approximately 8 calories.
Is this spice blend low in sodium?
Yes, it is very low in sodium, containing only 0.5mg per serving.
What is the best way to store the spice blend?
Transfer the blend into an airtight bottle or container and store it in a cool, dry place to preserve its freshness and potency.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe makes 10 servings of the spice blend.
Can I adjust the heat level of this seasoning?
Yes, you can adjust the amount of cayenne pepper used to match your desired level of spiciness.
What can I substitute for onion powder?
You can replace the onion powder with garlic powder if you prefer a different flavor or a bit more intensity.
Can I use cilantro instead of coriander?
Yes, switching cilantro for coriander is a suggested variation to create a different flavor profile.
What types of dishes can I season with this blend?
It is perfect for tacos, fajitas, quesadillas, arroz con frijoles, and various roasted vegetables.
Is this spice blend suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, all the ingredients are plant-based and vegan-friendly.
Why is cornmeal included in the spice blend?
Cornmeal is included to provide texture and help the spices adhere to vegetables like corn and chickpeas for a crispy finish.
How do I prepare the blend?
Simply combine all the spices in a medium-sized bowl and whisk them together until they are uniformly mixed.
What color should the final spice mixture be?
The mixture should have a consistent light reddish-brown color once it is thoroughly mixed.
Can I use this blend for marinating vegetables?
Yes, it is excellent for marinating corn, chickpeas, potatoes, and beans before roasting.
Does this blend contain any cholesterol?
No, this spice blend is cholesterol-free.
What is the fat content per serving?
The spice blend contains a negligible amount of fat, approximately 0.1g per serving.
How much fiber is in the spice blend?
Each serving provides about 0.7g of dietary fiber.
Is this blend suitable for Latin American cuisines other than Mexican?
Yes, its versatile flavor profile makes it a great addition to a wide range of Latin American dishes.
What amount of chili powder is used in the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of chili powder.
How much paprika is required?
You will need 4 teaspoons of paprika for this recipe.
Can I use this for making arroz con frijoles?
Yes, it is specifically mentioned as a great seasoning for arroz con frijoles.
How much cumin is in the blend?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of cumin.
Are there any artificial flavors in this recipe?
No, this homemade blend uses only natural spices and no artificial flavorings.
What is the amount of carbohydrates per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 1.9g of carbohydrates.
Does the recipe contain protein?
Yes, there is a small amount of protein, roughly 0.3g per serving.
What tools do I need to make this?
You only need a medium-sized mixing bowl and a whisk or a fork.
How much oregano is used?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of oregano.
Is there sugar in this spice blend?
There is a very minimal amount of sugar, approximately 0.1g per serving.
Why should I make my own spice blend instead of buying one?
Making your own allows you to avoid additives like MSG and tailor the salt and heat levels to your personal preference.