{taco seasoning from scratch. how gorgeous are these spice colors?}
Tonight, my quest was to make seasoned taco meat with ingredients from my own pantry. Turns out, my husband liked the homemade version better than the packaged! I omitted the red pepper flakes because we have other family members who do not like spicy foods, but even just a little dash would probably have added the "zip" that it really needed.
In the future, to save on time (not that it's not easy enough!), I might measure out a batch, then make a few batches and put it into a mason jar or spice jar for storage. On the outside of the jar, indicate the recommended serving amount. With the holidays coming up, it's a great idea to whip up a few batches and put it in a beautiful spice jar, decorate it and give it as a small gift! In fact, one of the best (and unique) gifts we received as a wedding favor was a Montreal Steak spice rub! I personally love the simple, cute look of the following labeled jar:
{link for these decorative jars can be found here}
The following recipe (taken from here) was so easy, it's ridiculous! Please note, I did make a few additions.
TACO SEASONING
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
Dash of flour
2-3 Tbsp water
Directions:
Mix all spices together. Cook desired taco meat in skillet, drain oil. return meat to skillet. Add 2-3 Tbsp water, a dash of flour and the spice mixture. Continue cooking on medium heat until thickened.
Compare the above ingredients to the packaged seasoning (who shall remain nameless):
Yellow corn flour
Salt
Maltodextrin
Paprika
Spices
Modified corn starch
Sugar
Garlic powder
Citric Acid
Autolyzed Yeast Extract
Natural flavor
Caramel color (sulfites)
I can imagine that you can also season black beans or vegetarian refried beans with the above seasonings if you are vegetarian.
Ole!
Great recipe! I love tacos but I hate how much sodium is in packaged taco seasoning mix. I am definitely trying this next taco night! Thanks!
ReplyDelete