This taco seasoning recipe is fantastic because it empowers you to create a flavorful blend without any hidden animal-derived ingredients! Plus, the joy of customizing the spice level and flavors to your liking makes homemade taco seasoning an absolute delight for your taste buds.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Customization. You have the freedom to customize and create your own crazy blend seasoning and adjust the spice level according to your personal preferences, making it much better than store-bought options!
- Healthy. You can opt for organic, high-quality spices and avoid additives, preservatives, and excessive amounts of sodium commonly found in pre-packaged seasonings.
- Freshness. Homemade seasonings allow people to use freshly ground spices, which enhances the overall flavor and aroma of the tacos.
- Cost-effective. Making taco seasoning at home can be more cost-effective in the long run when buying whole spices, compared to buying pre-packaged options.
Ingredients needed
- Chili powder. A must have to form the base of this warming taco seasoning flavor profile.
- Ground cumin. Adds a warm, earthy, and slightly smoky element to the seasoning!
- Paprika. For a mild, slightly sweet, and a tiny bit bitter, component.
- Garlic powder. To add a strong, sharp, savory aspect to the seasoning.
- Onion powder. Works well well with the garlic powder to compliment the savory base of seasoning.
- Dried oregano. Brings some robust aromatics to the table.
- Salt & black pepper. To round out the seasoning’s flavor profile.
- Cayenne pepper (optional). Depending how your spice tolerance holds, adding cayenne pepper will give your seasoning a little extra zing!
How to make taco seasoning
Step 1 – Assemble and mix. In a small bowl, combine all the spices: chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix until evenly combined.
Step 2 – Taste test. Taste the seasoning and adjust the spices according to your preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
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Step 3 – Seal the seasoning. Transfer the taco seasoning to an airtight container or a small jar with a tight-fitting lid.
Tips to make the best recipe
- Quality spices. Start with high-quality spices to ensure the best flavor. Look for fresh, whole spices whenever possible and grind them yourself for optimal taste.
- Balanced flavors. Aim for a well-balanced blend of flavors. Include a combination of earthy, savory, and slightly sweet spices to create depth and complexity.
- Salt control. Be mindful of the salt content in your seasoning. Many pre-packaged seasonings contain excessive amounts of salt. By making your own, you have control over the sodium levels.
- Experiment and have fun! Don’t be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect combination. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or incorporate dried herbs like thyme or marjoram for an extra layer of complexity.
Storage instructions
To store: Store your homemade vegan taco seasoning in an airtight container, preferably in a cool and dark place. This will help preserve the flavors and freshness of the spices for up to a year. Consider labeling the container with the date of preparation for reference.
Recommended tools
- Spice grinder. If you prefer using whole spices, a spice grinder is a must for grinding them into a powder.
Frequently asked questions
When stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place, homemade taco seasoning can last for several months to a year. However, the potency of the flavors may gradually diminish over time.
Absolutely! While taco seasoning is commonly used for tacos, it can be a versatile spice blend for various dishes. You can use it to season other Mexican-inspired vegan dishes like fajitas, enchiladas, quesadillas, or even sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, soups, or grain bowls to add a burst of flavor.
If you don’t have chili powder, you can use a combination of paprika and cayenne pepper for heat and flavor!
The amount of taco seasoning to use depends on your taste preferences and the intensity of the seasoning blend. As a general guideline, start with approximately 2-3 tablespoons of taco seasoning per pound of vegetables.
Taco Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin ground
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Instructions
- In a small bowl, combine all the spices: chili powder, ground cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if desired). Mix well to combine.
- Taste the seasoning and adjust the spices according to your preference. If you prefer it spicier, you can add more cayenne pepper. If you like it milder, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the cayenne pepper.
- Once you're satisfied with the flavor, transfer the taco seasoning to an airtight container or a small jar with a tight-fitting lid.
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