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Flavorful Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe Easy and Better Than Store-Bought

homemade taco seasoning - featured image

A quick and easy homemade taco seasoning blend that is more flavorful and fresher than store-bought packets. Perfect for tacos, roasted veggies, and more.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 tablespoons chili powder
  • 1 tablespoon cumin (preferably whole seeds toasted and ground, or ground cumin)
  • 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano (Mexican oregano if available)
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Optional: ½ teaspoon ground coriander

Instructions

  1. Toast whole cumin seeds (optional but recommended): Place 1 tablespoon (6g) of cumin seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant and slightly darker. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from heat and let cool.
  2. Grind the toasted cumin seeds: Use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to grind the seeds into a fine powder. If you don’t have whole seeds or prefer quicker prep, use 1 tablespoon (7g) of ground cumin instead.
  3. Measure out the remaining spices precisely: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons (14g) chili powder, 1 tablespoon (6g) paprika, 1 teaspoon (3g) garlic powder, 1 teaspoon (3g) onion powder, 1 teaspoon (1g) dried oregano, ½ teaspoon (1g) crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to heat preference), 1 teaspoon (5g) salt, ½ teaspoon (1g) freshly ground black pepper, and optionally ½ teaspoon (1.5g) ground coriander.
  4. Mix thoroughly: Whisk all the spices together until evenly blended. This ensures your taco seasoning is consistent in every pinch.
  5. Store your seasoning: Transfer the mix to an airtight jar or container. Label it and keep it in a cool, dark place. It will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 months, though it’s best used within 1-2 months for maximum punch.
  6. Use in recipes: When cooking, use about 2 tablespoons (30g) of seasoning per pound (450g) of meat or beans. Adjust based on your flavor preference.

Notes

Toasting cumin seeds adds extra depth and warmth but is optional. Adjust crushed red pepper flakes and cayenne pepper to control heat level. Store in airtight container away from heat and light for up to 3 months, best within 1-2 months. Fresh spices improve flavor. Can be used on meats, beans, roasted veggies, and snacks like popcorn.

Nutrition

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