Made From Scratch: Taco Seasoning

Step away from the seasoning packet! You probably already have all the ingredients you need to make your own Taco Seasoning from scratch.

When dinnertime rolls around and I have yet to put a thought into what will be gracing our dinner table that night, my go-to default meal is either tacos or burrito bowls. Both dishes are simple to put together and I typically have all of the key ingredients already on hand.

Our burrito bowls usually have a base of rice, some greens and chopped tomatoes, black beans if we're keeping it vegetarian or seasoned ground beef (more often ground venison in our house), a dash of shredded cheese, chopped avocado, a spoonful or two of salsa or pico de gallo, and a little dollop of plain Greek yogurt. Tacos are similar, but with rice served on the side.

Of course, you can't have seasoned meat without the taco seasoning. Turns out it's pretty easy to make your own taco seasoning from scratch. And the best part is that when you make your own seasoning, you can control the salt and spice level, and avoid the preservatives found in the store-bought varieties that keep them shelf-stable for the long haul.

This recipe makes about 1/2 cup of seasoning. I usually use about 1 tablespoon of seasoning per 1 pound of ground meat, but you can play around with the ratios. When we're doing a vegetarian version of this meal, I like to stir a spoonful of taco seasoning into the rice to amp up its flavor.

Taco Seasoning (printer-friendly version)
makes about 1/2 cup

3 tablespoons chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

1. Add all of the ingredients to a small bowl and stir together until thoroughly combined. Transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
To use: add one tablespoon taco seasoning (or more, to taste) along with 1/3 cup water to browned meat. Simmer for five minutes over low heat and serve.