Homemade Taco Seasoning Mix
Taco seasoning mix, a staple in many kitchens today, traces its origins back to the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. Traditional Mexican cuisine has long utilized a blend of spices such as chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic, and oregano to flavor meats and vegetables, creating the savory and robust flavors associated with tacos. The commercialization of taco seasoning mix began in the mid-20th century in the United States, coinciding with the growing popularity of Mexican cuisine. Companies started packaging these spice blends to offer convenience to home cooks who wanted to replicate the authentic flavors of Mexican dishes without the hassle of sourcing and measuring individual spices. This innovation made Mexican cuisine more accessible to a wider audience, cementing taco seasoning’s place in the pantheon of popular spice blends.
Equipment
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (Regular or smoked)
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (Optional for extra heat)
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (Optional for extra, extra heat)
Instructions
- Measure out all the spices and place them in a small mixing bowl.
- Use a whisk or a fork to mix the spices until they are well combined and evenly distributed.
- Transfer the taco seasoning mix to an airtight container, such as a small glass jar or a spice container, and store it in a cool, dry place. It will stay fresh for several months.
Notes
This recipe yields a little over 2 tablespoons, which is about the same as most store bought packets of mix. This recipe is good for using with one pound of meat.
Brown the meat in a skillet, drain any excess fat, add the seasoning mix, and a bit of water (around 1/4 to 1/2 cup). Let it simmer until the water is mostly evaporated and the meat is well-coated with the seasoning.